Impact of Petrochemical Industry on the Environment of Dibrugarh: A Study of BCPL, Assam

In the sphere of industrialization, Assam is yet to make much headway. Although the base for industrial development in Assam was created more than a century ago with the establishment of tea, coal, oil and plywood industries, it could hardly accelerate the pace of industrial development during the subsequent period. Thus, in order to promote the economic development of the state, Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited (BCPL) plant was set up in Dibrugarh District which came as a part of the historic Assam Accord signed on 15th August 1985. Though the plant has positive externalities from the point of view of employment and income opportunities but with the operation of this plant there have also been some negative externalities i.e. environmental pollution and the impact of pollution are being felt by the people residing around this industry. If the wastes generated from this industry are being properly managed then certainly it will have lesser impacts on the surrounding environment. Therefore, the main objective of this paper is to investigate the environmental problems faced by the surrounding villagers due to the establishment of this plant. Field surveys in the study area and interview with the respondents have been conducted for the purpose.