The Smart City Kochi project, which was launched with the announcement of bringing global investments to Kerala, has been operating without a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for a year now. The CEO resigned around six months ago.
The Smart City IT township is located adjacent to the Kakkanad Infopark. The project commenced with the promise of creating 90,000 job opportunities and constructing buildings over an area of 8.8 million square feet. The Kerala government holds a 16 percent stake, while Dubai Holding owns 84 percent. The Chief Minister serves as the chairman of the director board.
The first phase of the project, signed in 2011, became a reality in 2016. Even after 13 years, the declared objectives remain far from achieved. According to the information provided on the Smart City Kochi website, there are currently 37 companies operating in various sectors, including IT. Six companies are listed as construction partners, facilitating an investment of Rs 2,609 crore.
Out of this, Rs 1,985 crore of construction is progressing under the co-developers. The first IT building in the Smart City measures 6,50,000 square feet.
Authorities state that most constructions are nearing completion. They also highlight that once these buildings are fully operational, there will be an increase in job opportunities.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): K P Pravitha
Quelle/Source: Mathrubhumi, 01.11.2024