THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: On its first anniversary, the Left Government has sent out a strong message that it would pursue development initiatives despite opposition. Elaborating on the infrastructure development initiative, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said the government is of the view society’s common gains should be considered while implementing major projects.
“There will be opposition from those who suffer loss due to the projects. They will be given compensation and the government will go forward ensuring their cooperation. The Left Government has proven that it’s possible to implement major projects in Kerala,” he said.
Kerala Rail
The state is going for a joint venture with the Indian Railways to set up Kerala Rail giving more thrust to rail development. The joint venture will be taken up with a share ratio of 49:51. The MoU for the project has already been signed. This company will be a positive step towards Kerala’s railway development, Pinarayi said.
NH development
Before 2016, the people were not sure of land acquisition for National Highway expansion. The Left Government could instil confidence among the people and there’s a visible change in their attitude. No more major opposition towards land acquisition and there’s an attitudinal change that people are ready for common interests.
GAIL
Laying of pipeline for GAIL project is progressing. Now, only a small portion of land remains to be acquired. It will be completed in a time-bound manner. The Chief Minister said protests against Koodankulam power line have also come down. Soon the project will become a reality.
Kerala Bank
The Kerala Bank will soon become a reality. The state could effectively support its cooperative
sector during demonetisation.
KIIFB
Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is one of the most significant achievements of the Left Government. Financial experts of national and international standards are leading the KIIFB initiative. “The KIIFB has been set up with an aim to ensure financial resources for development projects. It will lead to a jump in state’s development,” Pinarayi said.
Highways
The Coastal Highway project will be completed at a cost of Rs 6,500 crore while the Hill Highway project will be taken up at an expense of Rs 3,500 crore.
Civil Aviation
Discussions were held over issues in the civil aviation sector in the recent meeting.
PSUs
More public sector units (PSU) have turned profit making. The total loss made by PSUs has come down to Rs 71 crore from Rs 131 crore during the UDF regime.