Nagpur: Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has launched a plug-and-play facility at Additional Butibori Industrial Estate to support small entrepreneurs, but representatives say units are lying vacant due to what they described as high charges.MIDC has been working to provide ready infra within industrial estates as it is often not financially viable for small entrepreneurs to buy plots and set up units. Under Additional Butibori project, 5 sheds measuring 500, 1,000, 1,500, 2,000 and 2,500sqm have been built.The sheds include loading and unloading platforms, industrial flooring, electricity, water supply, wastewater systems, firefighting arrangements, a security cabin, approach roads, office space and fibre-optic internet. The facility is the first of its kind in Vidarbha, but MIDC has not received a satisfactory response from small entrepreneurs so far.As per industry associations, infra built at significant cost should not lead to waste of public funds. Butibori Manufacturers Association secretary Shashin Agrawal said, “Plug-and-play concept can help promote small businesses. However, fees charged should be lower. If rates are reduced, the project will be received better.”Under the model, MIDC handles requirements like approved building plan, OC, fire NOC, electricity meter, water meter and permission from MPCB. Entrepreneurs need to apply and pay rent. TNN
