“Methane project only after ryots’ consent”

Ready to discuss compensation and rehabilitation: Union Minister

ALLAYING FEARS:Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan (second from right) with IOC Group Chairman B. Ashok (right) in Chennai. (From Left) Union Minister Pon. Radhakrishnan, MP P. Venugopal and Industries Minister M.C. Sampath are in the picture.— Photo: K.V Srinivasan

Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday said the Centre will proceed with the project to extract coal-based methane (CBM) in Thanjavur and Tiruvarur districts only after getting the consent of local people. “We will not apply force to implement the project,” he told reporters in response to queries on delta farmers opposing the project.

Mr. Pradhan was participating in the golden jubilee celebrations of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (CPCL) at Manali near here.

The Centre is holding discussions with representatives of farmers for the implementation of the project. “We are willing to discuss issues pertaining to compensation and rehabilitation,” he said emphasising that consent of society was essential in a democracy.

Mr. Pradhan sought the support of Chief Minister Jayalalithaa for the development of gas pipeline network and coal-based methane production in the State.

The Central and Tamil Nadu governments have to work in tandem to ensure the implementation of the pipeline project.

“We have to convince people… we are ready to cooperate. Agriculture and industry can go together,” he said.

Indian Oil Group companies Chairman B. Ashok said the refinery functioned even during the December 2015 floods and ensured fuel supply to the State. Union Minister of State for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping Pon. Radhakrishnan, Minister for Industries M.C. Sampath and CPCL Managing Director Gautam Roy spoke.