The decision to privatise Vizag Steel Plant has led to massive outrage in the state. From party leaders to employees all are fighting against the development, and in this context, Vundavalli Arun Kumar held a press meet and listed about the losses that would be faced if the mega steel plant was privatised.
He said that issues related to jobs would crop up, adding that around 18,000 employees are working in VSP and an additional 70,000 -80,000 people are actively dependent on the plant. Apart from this, around three lakh people are passively dependent on the firm for their livelihood. Also, with many firms located adjacent to the plant, there is a chance that many of them which are dependent on VSP may cut out on jobs to reduce their burden.
He said that localites would lose out on opportunities and that there would be an increase in lobbying. Also, the look of the present Steel Plant would transform completely and it would be difficult to even look. Arun Kumar even went on to say that it was not appropriate to privatise the factory which has been built following the sacrifices of Telugu people. Also, the decision isn’t beneficial for the general public and that it is a total loss. He emphasized on the fact that Vizag Steel Plant shouldn’t be put up for sale at any cost.
Undavalli also lambasted the Centre over the non-allocation of iron ore mines to RINL, which has been the primary reason for the plant to incur losses. He said that instead of privatising the plant the Centre must think of another alternative.
