THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Vizhinjam International Seaport has emerged as the flagship achievement of the LDF government in the ongoing election campaign, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reigniting the tussle over the development credit with UDF.
“Substantial work began in 2016, and key milestones were achieved after 2020 despite multiple challenges,” the chief minister said at a press conference the other day, asserting that the project’s major progress has taken place over the past decade.
The project has also sparked a political tussle between the LDF and the UDF, with both sides claiming credit for its development. The UDF has argued that the project was initiated during the tenure of former chief minister Oommen Chandy.
Similar credit battles had surfaced earlier too, especially during key milestones like the inauguration of commercial operations and Phase one completion. He also accused the BJP-led Centre of stalling approval for the Vizhinjam-Navayikulam Outer Ring Road, which is expected to improve connectivity to the port.
The chief minister further drew comparisons between IT sector growth under the UDF and LDF administrations. “At a time when we are seeking people’s mandate after ten years in governance, I can say with confidence that the Vizhinjam port and the rapid growth of the IT sector have laid a strong foundation for the state’s future,” he said.
Exports from government IT parks have risen sharply from Rs 8,003 crore in 2016 to Rs 26,256 crore, marking an increase of around 200%. The number of companies has grown from 650 to 1,160, while employment has expanded from 84,728 to 1.54 lakh.
Overall IT exports in the state have surged from Rs 34,123 crore in 2016 to nearly Rs 1 lakh crore today. “While approximately 26,000 jobs were created during the UDF tenure, the LDF has generated over 70,000 jobs in the past ten years,” Pinarayi said.The CM wrapped up the briefing with a sharp rebuke, accusing the media.