Kochi polypropylene unit to support packaging, textile and medical device industries
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated, dedicated to the nation multiple developmental projects worth around Rs.16,650 crore in the southern states of Keralam and Tamil Nadu, underlining the infrastructure development momentum and economic progress of the southern Indian regions.
During a visit to coastal city of Kochi on 11 Mar, he highlighted the scale of the investment, — Rs.11,000 crore in Keralam.
He pointed out that the foundation stone has been laid on 11 Mar at the Polypropylene Unit at the Kochi Refinery to produce four lakh tonnes annually to support the packaging, textile, and medical device industries.
Underscoring the strategic importance of this facility, PM Modi remarked, “To build a self-reliant India, for ‘Make in India’, the expansion of the petroleum sector is essential.”
In a move to bolster India’s position as a global manufacturing and technology hub, the Prime Minister linked the nation’s progress in AI and semiconductors to the rising demand for sustainable energy.
Modi remarked that, with the aim of ensuring Keralam progresses in the field of solar power generation, the foundation stone of a 50 MW Floating Solar Project has been laid in West Kallada today. Shri Modi remarked that with a very large number of water bodies in Keralam, the state holds great potential in the field of floating solar power.
Highlighting the shift toward a greener future, PM Modi said, “It is our endeavor that Keralam moves further ahead in solar power generation.”
The Prime Minister also detailed the significant strides made in regional connectivity through the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and railway electrification. Modernization efforts at Shoranur Junction, Kuttipuram, and Changanassery, along with the new Palakkad–Pollachi train service, are set to transform the travel experience for residents of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Stressing the impact of the national budget on local growth, Shri Modi observed, “Today, the world praises India for the investment being made in modern infrastructure.”
On road infrastructure, the Prime Minister highlighted how the new six-lane projects, including the Kozhikode Bypass and improved connectivity to Azhikkal Port, will drastically reduce travel time and congestion. “All these projects will benefit the farmers of Keralam; they will give a boost to tourism and other industries here,” he asserted.
The Prime Minister reiterated that every rupee invested in infrastructure serves as a catalyst for large-scale employment for the youth.
PM Modi expressed his firm belief that these multi-sectoral projects are essential building blocks for a prosperous future for the state.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also inaugurated, dedicated to the nation, and laid the foundation stone for Rs.5,650 crore projects in Tiruchirappalli, saying these developments will boost energy access, connectivity, and create thousands of jobs for the youth of Tamil Nadu.
Addressing a gathering at the project officiating event on 11 Mar, he emphasized the need to focus on sustainable energy, and highlighted the rapid modernization of the state’s transport sector.
The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for Bharat Petroleum’s City Gas Distribution (CGD) network. The Rs.3,700 crore project is set to transform the Nilgiris and Erode districts by providing Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to nearly nine lakh families and numerous commercial entities.
Highlighting the environmental benefits, Modi pointed out, “The positive environmental impact of this project over just eight years will be similar to the planting of four crore trees.”
He also dedicated the Indian Oil Corporation’s Lube Blending Plant in Chennai to the nation, saying it is a significant move to strengthen the ‘Make in India’ initiative. PM Modi highlighted that as one of the largest facilities of its kind globally, the plant is designed to meet the high demands of various industries within and outside the state.
“The increase in local production of lubricants also reduces imports and saves money for the nation,” said PM Modi.
The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of rural connectivity by inaugurating 370-km of rural roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. These roads are expected to provide villagers with better access to healthcare, education, and markets, thereby integrating the rural economy with the mainstream.
Reflecting on the cultural heritage of the region, the Prime Minister announced a new highway bypass project at Gangaikonda Cholapuram. The project aims to protect the UNESCO recognized grand temple built by Emperor Rajendra Chola by diverting heavy traffic away from the sacred site, ensuring the safety of both the monument and its visitors.
He flagged off new train services, linking key locations such as Nagercoil, Coimbatore, Rameshwaram, Tirunelveli, Mayiladuthurai, Karaikkudi with other regions to foster tourism and local trade. Fiinews.com
