Fatehpur: Calls for the revival of the long-defunct Ghatampur Sugar Mill in Kanpur Nagar district have gained momentum, with farmers and local representatives arguing that improved irrigation infrastructure is expected to significantly expand sugarcane cultivation, making the mill economically viable once again.
Social worker Rohit Umrao has submitted a memorandum to Member of Parliament Naresh Uttam Patel, urging him to pursue the reopening of the Ramsari Ghatampur Sugar Mill. The memorandum states that reviving the mill would enhance farmers’ incomes while reducing the cost and logistical challenges of transporting sugarcane to distant mills.
The sugar mill, which began operations on November 25, 1987, remained functional for over two decades before shutting down in 2009. Before its closure, it procured sugarcane cultivated across nearly 6,587 hectares, serving farmers from Ghatampur tehsil in Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Bindki in Fatehpur, and neighbouring districts including Hamirpur, Auraiya, Etawah and Unnao.
The memorandum highlights that the closure has adversely affected thousands of sugarcane growers. With the commissioning of the Jahanabad Pump Canal, irrigation coverage is expected to improve substantially, encouraging greater sugarcane cultivation and strengthening the case for reopening the mill.
It also urges the government to consider reviving the Ghatampur unit on the lines of other previously closed sugar mills that have resumed operations in Azamgarh, Gorakhpur and Basti.
Responding to the appeal, MP Naresh Uttam Patel said he would raise the issue during Zero Hour in Parliament and seek government intervention for the revival of the Ghatampur Sugar Mill, describing it as an important step towards strengthening the region’s agricultural economy and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
