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Business
Himachal Pradesh bans new ethanol plants, restricts power‑intensive hazardous industries
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 28 Aug 2026, 09:33 PM
👁 2
The Himachal Pradesh government announced a ban on setting up new ethanol production units and will tighten controls on industries that consume high power and pose safety hazards.
The administration of Himachal Pradesh has issued an order prohibiting the establishment of any new ethanol manufacturing facilities within the state. The decision is part of a broader effort to curb industrial projects that demand large amounts of electricity and carry heightened safety risks.
Officials said the move aims to preserve the state's limited power resources and protect the environment from potential hazards associated with high‑intensity manufacturing. Existing ethanol plants will continue to operate under current regulations, but any future proposals will face stringent scrutiny.
The policy also outlines stricter licensing criteria for sectors identified as power‑intensive or hazardous, signalling a shift toward more sustainable and low‑impact industrial growth. The government has urged investors to explore alternative, less resource‑heavy ventures that align with Himachal's ecological priorities.
Stakeholders were advised to submit compliance plans to the state’s industrial department within a stipulated timeframe, after which the new guidelines will be enforced. The announcement was reported by The Times of India.
Officials said the move aims to preserve the state's limited power resources and protect the environment from potential hazards associated with high‑intensity manufacturing. Existing ethanol plants will continue to operate under current regulations, but any future proposals will face stringent scrutiny.
The policy also outlines stricter licensing criteria for sectors identified as power‑intensive or hazardous, signalling a shift toward more sustainable and low‑impact industrial growth. The government has urged investors to explore alternative, less resource‑heavy ventures that align with Himachal's ecological priorities.
Stakeholders were advised to submit compliance plans to the state’s industrial department within a stipulated timeframe, after which the new guidelines will be enforced. The announcement was reported by The Times of India.