Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Dyes & Chemicals Merchants Association believes in self help being the best help.

Faced with the risk of fire and pollution risks, the association has embarked on the task of building an exlusive chemical storage depot costing Rs10 crore. The 56-acre complex will be located in the outskirts of Chennai.

The association has purchased the land from the government and has allotted over 420 plots to its members. All that the association expects from the government is proper approach roads, power connectivity and quick issue of licences.

According to the association secretary, Padam Kumar Tatia, the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority has cleared the project and the Central Leather Research Institute has carried out the 'environment impact assessment'.

While the merchants can shift their warehouses located amidst the residential locality in Chennai, they can continue to carry on their trading activities from their existing premises.

With more than 550 members, the association recently celebrated its Golden Jubliee.