Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth around ₹11,000 crore in Kochi, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, boosting tourism, and accelerating industrial growth in Kerala.
Addressing a public gathering in Ernakulam district, the Prime Minister said the projects will enhance connectivity, promote clean energy, and create employment opportunities, contributing to the vision of a developed state.
Focus on Petroleum and Manufacturing Sector
A major highlight of the event was the foundation stone for a polypropylene unit at the Kochi Refinery.
The facility is expected to produce around four lakh tonnes of polypropylene annually, supporting industries such as:
- Packaging
- Textiles
- Automobiles
- Medical devices
PM Modi said strengthening the petroleum and manufacturing sectors is crucial for advancing initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Push for Renewable Energy
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 50-megawatt floating solar power project at West Kallada.
Highlighting Kerala’s potential in renewable energy, he said the state’s numerous water bodies make it well-suited for floating solar projects.
He added that with India expanding in sectors like artificial intelligence and semiconductors, the demand for clean and sustainable energy will continue to rise.
Railway Infrastructure and New Train Service
Several railway projects were also announced under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
The projects include modernisation of key railway stations such as:
- Shoranur Junction Railway Station
- Kuttippuram Railway Station
- Changanassery Railway Station
The electrification of the Shoranur–Nilambur railway line was also completed, improving railway efficiency in the region.
Additionally, a new train service between Palakkad and Pollachi was launched to strengthen connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Road Projects to Improve Connectivity
On the road infrastructure front, the Prime Minister highlighted projects including:
- Improved connectivity to Azhikkal Port
- Construction of the six-lane Kozhikode Bypass
These projects are expected to reduce travel time, ease traffic congestion, and boost trade and tourism in the region.
Infrastructure Investment to Create Jobs
PM Modi said the global community is recognising India’s growing investment in modern infrastructure, noting that the latest Union Budget has allocated record funds for infrastructure development.
He added that Kerala is benefiting significantly from these investments, which will help farmers, tourism businesses, and industrial sectors.
The Prime Minister emphasised that every rupee invested in infrastructure creates employment and new opportunities for youth, expressing confidence that the projects will contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and a “Viksit Kerala.”
