Vapi industries emerging out of Mumbai's shadow

The Vapi industrial estate seems to be lessening its dependency on Mumbai. With many firms establishing their head offices in Vapi, industrialists believe the scenario is changing with availability of better infrastructure and communication facilities in the area.

"Our dependency on Mumbai is lessening. Many of the corporate offices are based in Vapi now. We have better roads, quality power supply, and most importantly, with the upgrading of our telephone exchange, the communication system has become faster," said Ashok Shukla, former secretary, Vapi Industries Association (VIA).

Companies such as Micro Inks, Bilag Industries, Zandu and Aarti Industries have their head offices in Vapi.

"In the beginning, all these companies were small scale industries, but now have turned into market leaders in their respective fields," noted Shukla.

Spread over 1,700 hectare with over 1,200 industrial units, the Vapi industrial estate has a turnover of Rs 12,000 crore annually. It contributes around Rs 300 crore to the central kitty by way of customs and excise duty. Chemical, pharmaceutical and paper industries have an overwhelming presence here.

"Earlier for marketing and trading purposes, industrialists had to go to Mumbai. But with better communication facilities, industrialists do not feel the need to frequent Mumbai now," he added.

Moreover, the accomodation cost is very low here. With schools, hospitals and other basic amenities coming up, the corporates are finding it a cheaper option, he said.