Leading industry associations in Kolkata Wednesday reacted strongly to frequent political disturbances in the state, saying these were delaying mega projects.

"The frequent and recently intensified disturbances are not only delaying the projects but are showing West Bengal in a poor light," a press statement issued jointly by city-based chambers of commerce and industries said Wednesday.

"These agitations are turning the clock back and fuelling negative perceptions that will unarguably slow down the current growth momentum and choke any future investment prospects in the state," the statement said.

In a veiled reference to the political agitation in Singur, where agricultural land has been acquired for Tata Motors' Nano project, the statement said: "We appreciate that both agriculture and industry have important roles to play in the developmental process. If there is any dispute, we firmly believe that the same can always be sorted out amicably."

The statement was released by seven leading industry associations, including the Confederation of Indian Industry - Eastern Region, the Indian Chamber of Commerce, the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Merchants Chamber of Commerce.

"All the chambers urge the need for industrialisation as it has always been and will be the main engine to drive the well-being and prosperity of West Bengal," the press note said.