23 hrs ago

Satheesan Envisions Keralam as One Integrated Port City

Chief Minister V D Satheesan says Keralam wants its ports to work together as one big transport network.

The government hopes to move more goods by sea instead of using crowded roads.

It also wants to grow tourism, aviation, businesses and exports.

A committee is checking a proposed sale of shares in Vizhinjam port.

The state says it wants to protect its interests and make sure no company gets too much control.

The government is also planning projects such as a convention centre, aviation training and cargo services.

Satheesan says the government has already started some election promises.

These include free bus rides for women and a new department for senior citizens.

Key facts

Coastline: Keralam has a 600-km coastline, according to Satheesan.
Vizhinjam: Satheesan said the port had begun export-import activities and is 10 nautical miles from the international shipping route.
Cargo plan: The government aims to shift 50 per cent of logistics movement to sea, as stated by Satheesan.
Share-transfer review: An empowered committee headed by the Chief Secretary is examining the proposed share transfer to Mediterranean Shipping Company.
Required approvals: Satheesan said the transfer requires state-owner approval and strategic clearance from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Southern Economic Corridor: The budget announcement assigns port-based activity to Thiruvananthapuram, a mineral corridor to Kollam and blue economy activity to Alappuzha.
First Cabinet meeting: The government introduced free KSRTC bus travel for women and established a Department for Senior Citizens, Satheesan said.

deccanchronicle.com · 1 day ago