Palakkad, Kerala: The Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries, Public Enterprises, and Steel, Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, highlighted the transformative potential of the integrated manufacturing cluster (IMC) in Palakkad, stating that the project will significantly reshape Kerala’s industrial and infrastructural landscape. Speaking at the Udyog Vikas event held in Palakkad on Saturday, Varma emphasised the government’s commitment to developing advanced industrial smart cities across the country, with Palakkad set to be a cornerstone of this initiative.
The Palakkad industrial smart city, sprawling over 1,710 acres in Pudussery Central, Pudussery West, and Kannambra, represents a major milestone in Kerala’s industrial development. Varma noted that the project is strategically positioned to boost the region’s industrial capabilities. The site, located just 21 km from Palakkad city, 120 km from Cochin, and 50 km from Coimbatore, enjoys significant logistical advantages. Its proximity to key urban centres and seamless interstate connectivity through road, rail, and air networks are expected to attract high-quality investments.
Varma underscored the city’s potential as a critical industrial hub for South India, stating that it is poised to enhance regional employment and foster innovation. The project’s multimodal connectivity ensures that it will serve as a gateway for industries, further contributing to the region’s economic growth.
Regarding the project’s progress, the minister shared that 81% of the required land has already been acquired. Environmental clearances for all land parcels were granted on January 1 of this year, marking a significant step forward in the project’s timeline. He also confirmed that the letter awarding the project to the project management and construction consultant has been issued, with the finalisation of the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) tender documents currently in progress.
The Palakkad industrial smart city is part of the Centre’s broader vision to create state-of-the-art greenfield industrial cities across India. The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure, foster innovation, and promote sustainable industrial growth. As the project progresses, it is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Kerala’s future as a hub for industrial innovation and growth.
During the event, the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) was honoured with the Udyog Vikas Award for its significant contribution to the development of industrial corridors in India.
