Mumbai, Aug. 22 -- Preparations are underway for the Essar group to set up a gas-to chemicals refinery on 1,215 hectares of land near Saphale in Palghar district. The local administration and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) have begun the initial process to acquire land for the project. MIDC deputy chief executive officer Dhananjay Sawalkar said, "Essar Group's proposal for the gas-to-chemicals project is under process.'' MIDC sources said Essar has held several meetings with the MIDC and requested 1,215 hectares of land spread over six villages: Usarni, Khatali, Dandi, Madhukar Nagar, Bhadave and Mathane. Out of this, 265 hectares is government land, and the rest will be bought from private owners. However, the villagers oppose the land acquisition. Swapnil Tare, a local leader, said, "We organised a bike rally on August 15 against the proposed Essar project as it will destroy our livelihood.'' Dipesh Thakur, a farmers' leader, said they oppose all projects reportedly planned for the region such as a port, airport and industries. "These projects will destroy at least five lakh trees. Moreover, the heightened activities will reduce our fish catch. Lobsters and pomfrets are exported from the Palghar district. Hence, we appeal to our political representatives to help us fight this development."' Sources said the project, with a capacity of 7 million tonnes, has already received the state government's approval. It will be commissioned in phases over five years with an investment of Rs.30,000-Rs.40,000 crore. Essar spokesperson did not respond to an email sent by HT for comments on the matter....