Kinfra Identifies Over 500 Acres for Vizhinjam Port-Led Industrialization Drive in Kerala
In a significant move to bolster the ongoing Vizhinjam port-led industrialization initiative, the Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Kinfra) has identified more than 500 acres of land in Thiruvananthapuram district. This strategic land identification is aimed at supporting the development of industrial clusters and allied infrastructure directly linked to the Vizhinjam International Seaport, enhancing the region's economic growth and connectivity.
Detailed Land Allocation and Acquisition Plans
Of the total land identified, 506 acres are located in Neyyattinkara taluk, with an additional 50 acres acquired in Kattakada taluk. Within Neyyattinkara, the breakdown includes 400 acres at Kulathoor panchayat and 106 acres at Perumkadavila near Neyyattinkara. The land acquisition process will follow a purchase model, ensuring fair compensation to landowners, as outlined in the state budget where Finance Minister K N Balagopal earmarked Rs 1,000 crore specifically for Kinfra to facilitate this acquisition.
Accelerating Hinterland Infrastructure Development
The Vizhinjam port, developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd under a public-private partnership, has experienced notable growth in vessel calls and cargo handling. This success has prompted authorities to accelerate the development of hinterland infrastructure, including logistics parks, container freight stations, and manufacturing units. These facilities are expected to benefit immensely from direct access to maritime trade corridors, positioning Kerala as a key player in global trade.
Groundwork for Industrial and Logistics Facilities
Officials have emphasized that Kinfra's land identification will lay the essential groundwork for establishing industrial parks, logistics facilities, processing units, and warehouses within a 20-kilometer radius of the port. Discussions with landowners are currently underway, and detailed surveys to assess land valuations have commenced as a precursor to formal acquisition, ensuring a transparent and efficient process.
Comprehensive Roadmap and Future Plans
In parallel, the state government has approved the appointment of a consultant to prepare a comprehensive roadmap for port-led industrialization. This roadmap will include feasibility studies, cluster development strategies, and detailed project reports designed to attract investors and streamline development efforts. Reflecting the scale of planned infrastructure growth, Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL) has already submitted proposals identifying more than 700 acres in the district, underscoring the ambitious vision for regional economic transformation.
