Cochin highrises, pictures and projects - II [Archive] - Page 30

AbrahamVCherry

May 30, 2008, 11:08 PM

EmaarMGF, one of India’s leading real estate developers, Friday announced plans to invest $3 billion at 10 cities in south India over the next few years. It plans to develop over 31 million square feet area in Hyderabad, Tirupati, Chennai, Coimbatore, Cochin, Mysore and Mangalore.

The plans span residential, commercial and retail, IT parks and special economic zones (SEZs) and hospitality sectors.

The company made the announcement while unveiling an integrated world-class leisure and residential community around an 18-hole golf course built with an investment of $1.4 billion (Rs.56.10 billion) here.

The unique project, first among several projects planned in south India, boasts of world-class golf course, luxury residences, large format retail facility, luxury and boutique hotels and IT SEZ.

EmaarMGF, a joint venture of Dubai-based Emaar Properties and MGF Development, developed the ‘Boulder Hills Golf & Country Club’ on 531 acres in the heart of the IT corridor in Gacchibowli.

The picturesque golf course, spread over 192 acres, is dotted with the peculiar Deccan plateau rocks and several lakes.

The project will have 110 luxury villas with a price tag of Rs.150 million to Rs 240 million. The integrated township will have 2,700 units, with 703 units in the first phase. The developers said many luxury units were already sold out.

“The most unique thing about this community is this is the only one of its kind in the country to be built around 18-hole golf course,” said EmaarMGF CEO William R. Rattazzi.

The IT SEZ called “IT Green” will have a built-up area of three million square feet and was expected to provide 37,000 jobs.

In the special purpose vehicles (SPV) for the project, EmaarMGF holds 74 percent stake while Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corp (APIIC) holds 26 percent.

EmaarMGF (south) CEO Srikant Joshi said the company has a land bank of 13,000 acres in 26 cities across India. It has 1,500 acres in south India alone.

To a query, Rattazi said EmaarMGF might revive its plans to go public in 12 to 18 months.
Link (http://cibercitycochinindia.blogspot.com/2008/05/cochin-among-10-southern-cities.html#links)

abhilash

May 31, 2008, 3:37 AM

SEZ In Kerala
Contradiction between CM and Minister of Industry

http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+Home&contentId=4049349&tabId=0&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@

abhilash

May 31, 2008, 3:47 AM

Deadline for Vallarpadam land acquisition ends today

Fate of the project hinges on case in High Court

KOCHI: Revenue authorities are keeping their fingers crossed as the case regarding land acquisition in Vaduthala for the rail connectivity of the proposed Vallarpadam International Container Transhipment Terminal is slated to come up before the High Court on Tuesday.

Much hinges on the outcome of this case as the land owned by 19 families in Vaduthala remains to be acquired for completing the land acquisition process for the rail connectivity.

With the deadline set by the Central government for completing the land acquisition for the road and rail connectivity ending on Saturday, revenue authorities can ill afford any further delay in completing the acquisition process.

Of the 4.30 hectares earmarked for the rail connectivity spread over four villages — Edappally North and South, Mulavukad and Cheranalloor — only 84.43 cents owned by 19 families in Vaduthala, falling within the limits of Cheranalloor village, remain to be acquired, revenue officials said. According to officials, if the court disposes of the case on Tuesday itself and the landowners decline to cooperate even after that, then the authorities would be compelled to initiate proceedings under the Land Acquisition Act.

Warrants to be served on the landowners under the Act and cash to be paid to the evictees have been kept ready, a revenue official told The Hindu.

Meanwhile, the dissenting landowners under the aegis of the Vaduthala Janakeeya Samithi are in no mood for any compromise.

“Our most import demand is that the State government should identify and register habitable land in the name of the landowners before they acquire our land,” Justine Thomas, general convener (technical), of the Samithi said.

They have also brought out an eight-point charter of demands following its meeting with the District Collector last week.

These include the longstanding demand to use the old ERG railway line, avoiding large-scale evictions in Vaduthala, and in the event of sticking to the alignment through Vaduthala, allocating six cents of land separately for each nuclear family among the displaced households.

Other demands were revision of the value of land and houses fixed by the District Level Purchase Committee, six months’ time to shift after receiving the rehabilitation land and job for at least one member from each displaced family in Cochin Port Trust even if that called for the creation of new posts to meet the qualification of the candidate.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/05/31/stories/2008053159230300.htm

JMen

May 31, 2008, 4:31 AM

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/6853/tiknarvoyagetr0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Source: www.tiknarhomes.com

abhilash

May 31, 2008, 5:04 AM

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/6853/tiknarvoyagetr0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Source: www.tiknarhomes.com

What a Design,Boss!!!!!
Where it is..

Give more details

abhilash

May 31, 2008, 5:15 AM

EmaarMGF to invest Rs 12,000 cr in south

EmaarMGF Land, a joint venture between Emaar Properties PJSC of Dubai and MGF Developments of India, is planning to invest $3 billion (Rs 12,000 crore) in 10 locations across south India over the next few years.

The venture will develop residential, commercial, retail, IT, SEZs and hospitality facilities across 31 million square feet (sft) land in Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysore, Mangalore and Kochi. The company has a nationwide land bank of 13,000 acres, including 1,500 acres in south India, EmaarMGF chief executive officer, William R Rattazzi, told the media at the launch of $1.4 billion (Rs 5,600 crore) 'Boulder Hills Golf & Country Club' leisure and residential community project in Hyderabad.

The company is planning an initial public offering (IPO) after withdrawing its plans in February. "This (IPO) should take place in 12-18 months depending on market conditions. The size and price of the issue would depend upon market conditions prevailing at that time," Rattazzi said.

Boulder Hills, developed in partnership with the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation, is spread over 531 acres in Hyderabad's information technology and financial corridor of Gachibowli.

It has a fully operational 192-acre championship golf course designed by Harradine Golf, the Switzerland-based company that designed over 200 golf course projects in Europe, Africa and Asia.

The first phase of Boulder Hills comprises 703 residential units with a mix of single and multi-family units. It will be home to a special economic zone with a built-up area of 3 million sft and 'The Mall of Hyderabad' spread over 13 acres.

The mall is expected to be completed by 2010.

In the residential space, according to Rattazzi, EmaarMGF will develop luxury and super luxury gated communities and townships over 20.5 million sft. In the retail arena, the company will develop 3 million sft top-tier retail space across its southern locations. The company will introduce the 'Mall of the City' series wherever it goes.

EmaarMGF also has plans to introduce luxury and boutique properties at Andhra Pradesh in association with Four Seasons and Marriot International.

The company is planning to have 30,000 rooms in the hospitality sector over the next five years.

http://www.rediff.com/money/2008/may/31em.htm

PLUS

May 31, 2008, 7:19 AM

AbrahamVCherry

May 31, 2008, 12:46 PM

AbrahamVCherry

May 31, 2008, 3:25 PM

Kochi, May 31 (IANS) Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), one of the leading shipbuilding yards in the country, will launch five platform supply vessels (PSVs) Monday. The PSVs include Sea Turbot for Deep Sea Supply, Norway, Hellspont Daring and Hellspont Dawn for Hellspont Steam Ship, Greece, and Oliver Tide and Davidson Tide for Tide Water Marine, the US.

In a release issued here Saturday, the company said the vessels were designed in a way that would satisfy specific demands of transport of deck cargo, pipes, liquid cargo, cement/barite, unloading to rigs, production platforms and pipe-laying barges.

The vessels have been designed using Rolls Royce ship technology and all the five PSVs will be delivered between August and December 2008.

CSL commenced the ship building operations in 1978, ship repair in 1981, marine engineering training in 1993 and offshore upgradation in 1999.

As a technology leader in India, CSL has adopted the Japanese Integrated Hull Outfitting and Painting system (IHOP) for its new construction works.

A CSL official told IANS that the total cost of production of each vessel is $20 million and it was completed in a matter of six months.

“Some more outside work for the vessels is left and it would be done during the trial runs and then delivery would begin. Presently, we have orders for 20 PSVs for foreign owners valued at Rs.20 billion. We have also commenced construction of aircraft carrier for Indian Navy,” said the official.

LINK (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/05/cochin-shipyard-to-launch-five-platform.html#links)

JMen

May 31, 2008, 4:32 PM

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/5542/landmarkelevpw2.jpg

Source: www.amityproject.com

AbrahamVCherry

May 31, 2008, 9:53 PM

Kochi, May 29 In five years, 1.7 million jobs in Information Technology (IT) sector in India will move out of tier 1 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore and Hyderabad, to tier 2 cities, Siddhartha Bhattacharya, Infopark's chief executive officer, said here.

Bhattacharya was speaking Wednesday at a discussion organised by The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE), a global not-for-profit organisation promoting entrepreneurship. Infopark at Kochi is a state government-owned IT Park.

It is the better quality of life and lower operating cost that are attracting the IT companies to these cities, he said quoting research reports.

He said among the upcoming IT destinations, Kochi has many inherent advantages.

'The data transmission cost from Kochi is low. Seventy-five percent of the country's data traffic goes out from Kochi. VSNL has a 15 gigabyte gateway here. The electricity and water tariffs are one of the lowest among all the states. Compared to Bangalore, house rent is low in Kochi. The attrition rates in IT companies are below 10 percent.'

At present around 40 companies in the Infopark employ around 7,000 people. 'In next four years we expect the number of companies to go up seven to eight times.'

:cheers: Infopark is in the process of coming out with a dedicated incubator to help start up companies. 'This is an early life support system for start ups. We will help them with issues like government clearance, finance and also help them expand,' he added.

:tup: He said that Kerala has the highest density of IT and science professionals. 'The state's infrastructure is pretty strong, especially in telecommunication sector,' he added. LINK (http://cibercitycochinindia.blogspot.com/2008/05/bangalore-hyderabad-lose-it-jobs-to.html#links)

There are areas which still need alot of work in order to sustain the IT boom in Cochin/Kochi!!!!!
Kochi is an upcoming city in Kerala and is aggressively being promoted by the state government as an IT destination. Though it doesn't have any ITES companies of significance yet, it holds a lot of potential to attract many.

But the city needs to address the following infrastructure issues:
1 Though it has the lowest power tariff among all the cities surveyed, COCHIN still experiences
some power cuts

2 Like most cities in India, Kochi lacks a decent public transport infrastructure

3 Compared to the larger cities, Kochi has only a few colleges. As ITES companies would mainly hire graduates, the state needs to ensure abundant supply of trained manpower.

4 Kochi too loses out in the perception game. The government needs to ensure that the city moves up this scale to start attracting new businesses This has improved!!!Perception plays an important role while deciding the location of a new unit. Bangalore ranked high because of the state's IT policy. Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Kochi lag behind in the IT initiatives undertaken by the government

5Power
The variance in the ranking comes due to the tariffs existing across various cities. Kochi has a low tariff of Rs 3/unit and it goes as high as Rs
4.97/unit in Mumbai Kochi experience pre scheduled power cuts

6 Entrepreneurship
Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi have a large number of start- ups and have more entrepreneurs hailing from the city who in turn set up base in the
city. Kolkata, Pune and Kochi don't score very that high, as they do not have many start-ups.
Infopark is in the process of coming out with a dedicated incubator to help start up companies. 'This is an early life support system for start ups. We will help them with issues like government clearance, finance and also help them expand,' he added.
This area also is improvingLINK (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/02/infrastructure-issues-cochin-city-needs.html#links)

abhilash

Jun 2, 2008, 4:19 AM

Nod for tourism projects worth Rs. 18. 41 crore

KOCHI: Tourism development projects worth Rs.18.41 crore under the tsunami rehabilitation programme have received administrative sanction in the district. Tendering process for these projects is under way, Harbour Engineering Department said.
Under the programme, various projects had been envisaged in Fort Kochi, Cherai, Munambam and Munakkal. The tourism development project in Fort Kochi had been allocated Rs. 8.05 crore, Munambam Rs.3.62 crore, and Rs. 4.04 had been set apart for the project in Cherai.
The Rs. 5 crore-Chellanam fishing harbour and the Rs. 77-lakh Vypeen fish-landing centre had also received administrative sanction.
The Harbour Engineering Department has set up three desalination plants at a cost of Rs. 32 lakh in Chellanam, Mulavukad and Kadamakkudy and had handed them over to the respective panchayats.
Construction of seawall spending Rs.72.9 lakh under the Tsunami Rehabilitation Programme was another achievement of the department.
Dredging activities in the Perumpadappu-Kumbalanghi backwater undertaken as per the special initiative of Fisheries Minister S. Sarma was making progress. Twenty per cent of the works had been completed and Rs. 10.45 lakh of the estimated cost of Rs. 99 lakh project had been utilised.
About 60 per cent of the dredging works, worth Rs. 15 lakh, of the Chathanad fishing area had been completed.
Thirty-nine roads in the district had been renovated at a cost of Rs. 5.21 crore for which assistance was received from the Asian Development Bank. Besides, renovation of 29 more roads at a cost of Rs. 4.47 crore had also received the administrative sanction under the TRP.
Seventy per cent of the renovation works of the Varapuzha fish market had been completed while the renovation of the Njarakkal market was under way.
Tendering of project for the dredging works of the Munambam approach channel and basin, which is expected to cost Rs. 1.5 crore, had already been started.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/02/stories/2008060257470300.htm

puppuli

Jun 2, 2008, 5:39 PM

Upcoming IT park near Infopark

Area-40000 Sqm Investment -50 crores

Awaiting govt approval

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/7939/itparkij6.png (http://imageshack.us)

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/1972/geonairdubaiob9.png (http://imageshack.us)

abhilash

Jun 3, 2008, 4:18 AM

Kochi to focus on tree-counting, making city garbage-free

KOCHI: Counting of trees and identification of spots where saplings are to be planted will be the focus areas of the Environment Day observance in the city. The civic administration has chalked out a series of programmes for June 5 for celebrating the World Environment Day.

The Corporation has decided to combine the Environment Day celebrations with an awareness campaign among children on keeping the city free of garbage, said E.M. Sunilkumar, chairman of the Town Planning Standing Committee of the Kochi Corporation.

The counting of trees in the city will be held in two phases. The counting in the Edapally, Ernakulam and Vyttila zones of the Corporation will be held between June 5 and 20. In the second phase, the counting will be held in the Palluruthy-Fort Kochi areas. Ten teams of students guided by botany teachers will carryout the tree count. The common name of the tree, its scientific name and uses will be recorded as part of the census. The Corporation has also issued directives to the officials to identify places where new saplings have to be planted as a large number of trees have been destroyed or uprooted in different parts of the city over the years. The planting of the saplings will be completed before July 30.

The Corporation is also planning to seek the support of traders and business community for the protection of trees. The Merchants’ Union and the Kerala Chamber of Commerce and Industry have offered to cooperate with the project, Mr. Sunilkumar said.

The Corporation will inaugurate a programme for the free distribution of waste collection boxes and two plastic buckets for every classroom in the city schools. The formal inauguration of the programme will be held on June 5 at a function to be held at the EMS Memorial Town Hall.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/03/stories/2008060354550800.htm

abhilash

Jun 3, 2008, 4:20 AM

Cochin Shipyard launches five platform supply ships

KOCHI: It was a historic day for Cochin Shipyard Ltd. (CSL) on Monday when it, for the first time, delivered five platform supply ships in a single batch at a brief function organised at the Shipyard.

The launch of the vessels took the traditional route with the flooding of the dock. Vice-Admiral S.K. Damle, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, was the chief guest on the occasion. Cmde. M. Jitendran, Chairman and Managing Director of CSL and senior officials were present.

The vessels delivered on Monday included the seventh in a series of eight ships being built for Deep Sea Supply, Norway; two each out of the four ships ordered by Hellespont Steamship Corporation, Greece, and Tidewater Marine International Inc., U.S.A.

The simultaneous launch of five vessels on Monday builds on the good performance by the public sector shipyard over the last five years during which it has set and broken records of its achievements.

The total turnover of the Shipyard rose three times between 2002-03 and 2006-07 from Rs.235 crore to Rs. 720 crore, said a communication issued at the end of the launch of the vessels.

A record was also set in shipbuilding turnover during 2006-07 at Rs.478 crore. This achievement was again surpassed in 2007-08 with the shipbuilding income reaching Rs.600 crore (provisional figure).

Ship repair business too did well during the period with the Department turnover crossing the Rs. 240-crore-mark during 2007-08.

The CSL’s net profit registered a three-fold rise from Rs.18 crore in 2005-06 to Rs.58 crore in 2006-07. The financial performance in the year 2007-08 is expected to surpass all previous records, claimed the communication.

The platform supply ships delivered on Monday are of the popular UT-755 L design for the offshore industry. The vessels are designed for satisfying the specific demands of transport of deck cargo, pipes, liquid cargo, cement/ barite etc and unloading to rigs and production platforms and pipe-laying barges.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/03/stories/2008060353740500.htm

bhasidali

Jun 4, 2008, 9:13 AM

Some info about Forum malls...Check out this

http://retailduniya.com/

abhilash

Jun 4, 2008, 9:43 AM

God's Own Country to be changed to Hartals own Country!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fuel price hike is all over India
But Hartal is only in Kerala

How business will come here???????http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+News&contentId=4067409&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@

sowmya

Jun 4, 2008, 12:08 PM

Another bad news. Malta Smart city is going to be inaugurated on June 14th. But Kochi Smart City is nowhere due to govt's red-tapism. Could not find the link but it is true

sowmya

Jun 4, 2008, 12:11 PM

LDF which is the ruling party itself is conducting Hartals. Iam worried that they will protest against shopping malls and multiplexes once Lulu and Oberon malls open.
It is the fate of our state

God's Own Country to be changed to Hartals own Country!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fuel price hike is all over India
But Hartal is only in Kerala

How business will come here???????http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+News&contentId=4067409&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@

ani07

Jun 4, 2008, 12:12 PM

SCMS becomes 'largest autonomous B School' in India

KOCHI: School of Communication and Management Studies (SCMS), Cochin has become the largest business school in the country in the autonomous sector with the sanctioning of 60 seats in its P G Programme in Management, a SCMS release claimed on Monday.

'The campus of SCMS at Cochin and the high quality level of professional education offered coupled with placement in top multinational corporate houses made the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) increase the intake to 330 seats in its PG Dioploma in Management programme from this academic year onwards, it said.

SCMS Cochin is the only business school in Kerala that is accredited by the National Board of Accreditation with A Grade, it said

The P G Programme of SCMS is ISO certified as the most industry relevant management programme. The Association of Indian Universities, Government of India has recognised the PGDM programme as equivalent to MBA with all attendant benefits, it said.

With the 120 seats in the MBA programme of SCMS School of Technology and Management, SCMS Group has 450 seats in its management programme.

Established in 1976, SCMS Cochin has the distinction of being the first professional institution in the self-financing sector in Kerala,the release said.

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/News/News_By_Industry/Services/Education/SCMS_becomes_largest_autonomous_B_School_in_India/rssarticleshow/3093915.cms

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 4, 2008, 1:16 PM

Wednesday June 4 2008 10:30 IST
GURUVAYUR: The infrastructure of the Cochin International Airport can be utilised for moulding professionals in the field of civil aviation, Cochin International Airport Authority (CIAL) Managing Director Krishnadas Nair said here on Tuesday.

The proposal for a training institute imparting PG Diploma courses and certificate courses related to aircraft is being initiated at CIAL.

The proposed CIAL institute will be beneficial for the students of the state who are now depending on private institutions for job-oriented courses related to aircraft with very higher fees.

The proposal is at the initial stage and details regarding the institute, courses and syllabus will be worked out, Krishnadas Nair said. The CIAL MD was here to offer prayer at Sree Krishna temple.
Link (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/06/aircraft-training-institute-at-cial-on.html#links)

kunjumon123

Jun 4, 2008, 3:32 PM

Better you guys relocate to TN or AP or Karnataka. That is the only soln for Keralites

whats that supposed to mean??

elm07

Jun 4, 2008, 4:09 PM

Better you guys relocate to TN or AP or Karnataka. That is the only soln for Keralites

Point taken ... but dont you think we rather work towards being part of the solution?

viperpaul22

Jun 4, 2008, 4:24 PM

Better you guys relocate to TN or AP or Karnataka. That is the only soln for Keralites

Santhosh, please check your PM.

sakrishna

Jun 5, 2008, 2:50 AM

http://www.gokulamhousing.com/uploads/large/1212163928.JPG

abhilash

Jun 5, 2008, 3:57 AM

Elamkulam bridge to be widened soon

KOCHI: The widening of the bridge near Elamkulam along the Sahodaran Ayyappan road, the first road infrastructure project to be implemented for Kochi, will begin within a fortnight.

Kochi is banking heavily on the projects that are implemented with the support of the Asian Development Bank and the ones sanctioned by the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission for materialising its infrastructure dreams. Kerala Sustainable Urban Development Project (KSUDP) is the nodal agency for the projects sanctioned by the two agencies.

The Rs. 3.5 crore-bridge widening project at Elamkulam will be completed within 18 months. The project is expected to ease the traffic along the road by widening the road and bridge in the area, according to authorities.

Other than the bridge widening project, projects for widening some of the important roads connecting major roads and those between MG road and Chittoor roads have also been planned. These projects will be implemented without acquiring any land. The improvement of the inter-connecting roads will be taken up by the KSUDP. The following are the roads that would be benefited from the scheme:

Karshaka Road (first 150 metres from South Road overbridge), Palarivattom-Vyttila road, Chittoor road, road between MG road and Chittoor road from Padma junction, road between MG road and Chittoor road from Ground Junction, road between MG road and Chittoor road from KSRTC junction, road between MG road and Chittoor road from Jose junction, Thoppumpady-Paravana-Fort Kochi road, Paravana-Mattanchery, TD road, Church landing road, Durbar Hall road and Mullassery canal road.

The KSUDP has also proposed six projects for improving key traffic junctions in the city. The junctions that have been identified for the project are the following: Jose junction, Maharaja College junction, Padma junction, Kacheripady junction, Park Avenue with Hospital Road Junction and Kathrikadavu junction.

The Rs. 9.78 crore surface water drainage scheme proposed for Kochi has failed to evoke much enthusiasm like the Rs. 131 crore Basic Services to the Urban Poor scheme. It is the escalating cost of building materials, it is learnt, that has been discouraging the contractors from taking up the projects.

Proposals for setting up conventional water supply scheme, seawater desalination project, a special water supply scheme for Eloor, Kalamassery and Rain Water harvesting are also in the pipeline. A major sum has been spent already by the authorities towards the setting up of the Brahmapuram solid waste treatment plant.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560351100.htm

abhilash

Jun 5, 2008, 3:58 AM

Infrastructure fails to keep pace with growing city

Rail, road connectivity to Vallarpadam faces hurdles; Metro in a limbo

KOCHI: Kochi’s image as a city of high growth potential has helped the real estate to grow, but the implementation of several infrastructure projects in the city has been on a slow pace. While some of the international projects initiated in the city have a time-frame for completion, the uncertainty over the infrastructure projects remains a matter of concern.

The work on the rail connectivity to the Vallarpadam container terminal has suffered major setbacks with the acquisition of land running into trouble. The issue pertaining to evictees at Moolampilly, one of the localities situated along the proposed route, had snowballed into a controversy. Though a scheme was drawn up to settle the issue, discontent has not totally died down.

The road project to connect the container terminal too has met with major roadblocks. The residents of Vaduthala, a place along the planned road, had opposed the route right from the beginning.

Traffic blocks continue to plague the city roads with no immediate solution in sight. While none seems to be able to control the increase in the number of automobiles on the road, traffic bottlenecks remain a major hurdle in the city’s path of progress. Though the district administration had drawn up a plan for widening MG Road, it could not be implemented satisfactorily. The Metro-rail project, even after two years of formal conceptualisation, remains on paper. The opposition from a group of merchants along MG Road is posing a threat to the project which had raised high hopes of easing traffic snarls. While talks are said to be in progress to sort out the issue, none is sure of the final word from the authorities. Flyovers that characterise many of the modern cities have failed to get established in the city.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560391100.htm

abhilash

Jun 5, 2008, 4:02 AM

Traffic snarls a regular feature

KOCHI: It is 9.30 a.m. Decibel levels at Sahodaran Ayyappan Road have long exceeded the acceptable ranges. The entire stretch is teeming with persistently honking vehicles.

A screaming ambulance tries desperately to steer its way through this route locked in both directions. Inside the ambulance, Ramesh, the driver, is sweating and stretching out to the drivers seeking help. After a painful wait, he somehow manages to squeeze his way out from the bottleneck.

“It has become a regular thing to get trapped in this congestion. It takes at least 20-25 minutes for an ambulance to reach Pallimukku junction from Vyttila on a busy day. The toughest part is to clear the Kadavanthara-Panampilly Nagar-South Railway over bridge stretch,” says Mr. Ramesh.

No one wants to be on the roads of Kochi in a critical condition, requiring urgent medical help. Not even a daring driver like Ramesh.

Official records available with the Regional Transport Office pointed out that about 5.5 lakh vehicles ply in Ernakulam district. The numbers are growing.

Records said that about 2,000 vehicles are registered in the city limits a month; 85 per cent of which are private vehicles. The widening gap between the growing number of vehicles and the lack of infrastructure has turned life worse for the average Kochiite.

Geevarghese Oommen, a computer dealer in the city who rides a motor cycle to reach his office, says: “It takes at least 45 minutes for me to cover the Elamkulam -Manorama junction stretch in the morning. During rains, it exceeds one hour. Who is there to address the problems of the common man? For the last 12 years, authorities have been saying that crores of rupees had been spent on developing the Sahodaran Ayappan road. But will someone show me the results?”

Unscientific planning

Unscientific planning remains the bane of the city. Road widening projects have come to a halt in many areas, thanks to red-tapism and lack of funds. Entry points to the city are often choked with heavy vehicles. An accident or a rally is all it takes to throw normal life out of gear.

Rajeev Aravindh, a marketing professional in the city who travels at least 30 km everyday in his car, says that the Vyttila-Maradu route often provides a nightmarish experience for the travellers. “I was caught up in the snarl-up for more than one hour last week. I could not move even an inch. It took me more than two hours to reach my home at Thoppumpady. We are not even able to ensure smooth traffic of private vehicles in the city. How will the authorities then provide adequate infrastructure for projects worth crores of rupees like the Vallarpadom container terminal and Smart City?” he asks.

Work on railway over bridges and flyovers are also pending. The Edappally railway over bridge, the local residents say, will never become a reality going by its current pace.

“Traffic snarl-ups are also common in places like Aluva and Angamaly. The planners should try to come up with projects that would ease the congestion in these towns in tandem with the proposed mega projects for the city. But here nothing will happen, as individual interests always overtake the overall welfare of the public,” he says

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560371100.htm

Massive investments in projects needed

KOCHI: Kochi’s urgent requirement for massive infrastructure development stands in sharp contrast with the snail pace of project implementation in the city. From the 12-year delay in developing Sahodaran Ayappan Road to taking steps suggested by Rail India Technical and Economic Services (RITES) way back in April 1991, the city looks unable to catch up with its future.

Investments needed

Massive investments in a slew of projects, including the international container transshipment terminal, are knocking at Kochi’s doors and the crying need is for infrastructure like flyovers, rail overbridges and broader roads.

The Pulleppady rail overbridge, the key to linking the east and west halves of the city, awaits commissioning, three years after the completion of a major portion of the overbridge.

Twenty-five metres of the bridge remain to be completed by the Railways. Several other projects have not even been taken up despite their importance to the growth of the city.

This include the flyovers on National Highways at the Kundannoor, Vyttila and Palarivattam junctions.

Rail overbridges at Ponnurunny, Atlantis and Vaduthala-Pacchalam too need to be taken up in a time-bound manner.

Roads and Bridges Development Corporation of Kerala Limited (RBDCK), the infrastructure development agency, has prepared plans for developing the flyovers at Vyttila and Palarivattam. The proposals are before the Government, said R. Sreelekha, managing director of RBDCK.

Roundabout

The proposal for an elevated roundabout was proposed at Pachalm to ease congestion in Pachalam and Vaduthala areas.

Applications for approval of the project is pending with the Railways and Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organization (KITCO) had drawn up a plan for a roundabout with connections to Marine Drive, Kaloor, NH 17, Goshree Bridges and Chittoor and Mathai Manjooran roads.

Ms. Sreelekha said that RBDCK had run into trouble with the Pulleppady rail overbridge as it had its money locked up. RBDCK had paid about 80 per cent of value of the land that was acquired for the project.

The money was part of the Rs. 56-crore loan availed from Housing and Urban Development Corporation (Hudco).

The mode of repayment of the loan was through the toll collection which has now been delayed. About the Atlantis rail overbridge, the RBDCK official said that land acquisition would be a costly process for the project. The project has remained in its proposal stage.

Ponnurunny

Land acquisition process for the Ponnurunny rail overbridge is nearly complete, said Ms. Sreelekha.

This is a project that involves the Railways. RBDCK has spent Rs. four crore in land acquisition and having had the Pulleppady experience, RBDCK appears to be hesitant in starting the work.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560401100.htm

viperpaul22

Jun 5, 2008, 12:01 PM

Elamkulam bridge to be widened soon
http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560351100.htm

Massive investments in projects needed
http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560401100.htm

Parallel roads are the key
http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/05/stories/2008060560411100.htm

thunderboltz

Jun 6, 2008, 7:36 PM

news about the 100-storeyed building from Zoom developers.

http://propertybytes.indiaproperty.com/?p=2350

India would soon have a 100-storeyed building. The New Delhi-based Zoom Developers has planned to build a 100-storey office complex in Kochi, Kerala.

At Rs 1 crore per acre, the 40-acre tract has been purchased by the Zoom Developers from the Kerala Industrial Infrastructure development (Kinfra) to build an international trade and convention centre at Kochi.

The 100-storey building developed as a part of the project will be around 1,640 ft (500 metres) in height. As per the mandate from the state government of Kerala the project should have convention halls and exhibition halls on an area of 2.5 lakh sq ft.

The mandatory requirements need to be completed by the end of this year. “The work is on full swing and we are confident of meeting the mandatory requirements by December 2008,” says Rumneek Bawa, managing director Zoom Infraestates. The total cost outlay of the project would be Rs 1,000 crore, which the company plans to fund through a mix of internal accruals and bank loans.

Zoom Developers has also roped in the Singapore-based CPG consultants for the architectural design of the project. The project will also include a five-star hotel comprising 31 floors and a total of 400 rooms. The unique 100-storey tower apart from offices would also have a shopping mall spread over six floors.

The other structures in the convention centre would include a trade centre, service apartments, restaurants, a post office, and a multilevel car parking.

The project will be completed in three phases. The first phase would involve the building of convention and exhibition halls, which will be completed by the end of this year. The second phase would involve the construction of a five-star hotel and shopping mall, while the third would involve completion of the office tower.

The development is located at a distance of 25 km from the Cochin airport and 26 km from the sea port.

viperpaul22

Jun 6, 2008, 8:36 PM

with CPG as consultants..this would be the mother of all projects in Cochin..

bijugp

Jun 7, 2008, 3:29 AM

Company Chairman S Sarma announced that the construction activities of Smart City will start on 2nd October...

Full News
http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?articleType=Malayalam+News&contentId=4078534&tabId=11&contentType=EDITORIAL&BV_ID=@@@

abhilash

Jun 7, 2008, 3:36 AM

Karim calls for consensus on State’s development agenda

KOCHI: Industries Minister Elamaram Karim has called for a consensus among political parties and trade unions on a development agenda for the State. He was giving away the the FACT–MKK Nayar Memorial Productivity awards at a function organised by the Kerala State Productivity Council at Kalamasserry near here on Friday.

Several public sector units of the State were in a recovery stage while many of the private sector units were performing well.

There were young entrepreneurs in Kerala, ready to face challenges. Infrastructure should be developed to facilitate the new industrial environment.

The media should play a constructive role to help the development process. The minister said a lot needed to be achieved in the manufacturing sector.

Cooperation sought

Some of the public sector units had failed to make progress due to lack of induction of new technology. Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) had been facing a crisis, but Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore Limited (FACT) could withstand the crisis to some extent. The Minister said the cooperation of trade unions was a key factor in ensuring a turnaround at several units.

The Best Productivity award for large industries was given to Cochin Shipyard Limited while Hindustan Newsprint Limited got the award for the second best performance.

The first and second positions in the medium industries were bagged by United Electrical Industries Limited, Kollam, and V Guard Industries Limited, Ernakulam.

The best and second best award in small industries category were given to Nambiattukudy Agro Industries, Koovappady, Perumbavoor, and AMS Spices & Food Products Private Limited, Manjeri, respectively.

The awards for service organisations were given to Kerala Forest Development Corporation, Kottayam, and Popular Vehicles and Services Limited, Mamangalam, Ernakulam.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/07/stories/2008060758040300.htm

abhilash

Jun 7, 2008, 3:41 AM

Carwash unit opened

KOCHI: Master Motors, an enterprise of Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs), has opened the State’s first automated carwash unit at Nettoor on the National Highway bypass. Besides carwash, the unit also sells car décor, accessories, lubricants, car entertainment systems, anti-corrosive coating and protective sealant coating. The time taken for a carwash will be less than 10 minutes, the promoters said, adding that the cost would be just Rs.30 more than that charged by the traditional methods. Entertainment zones for kids, women and dormitory facilities are also provided to motorists. The promoters plan another unit at Kakkanad in the city, and also units in Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Thrissur and Kozhikode.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/07/stories/2008060755181700.htm

abhilash

Jun 7, 2008, 3:43 AM

Eastern group plans expansion

Targets Rs.1,000-crore turnover
KOCHI: The Adimali-based Eastern group has drawn up major expansion plans, including opening up three new processing factories, and increasing exports to the Middle East and foraying into European markets in a big way. Group chairman M.E. Meeran said Eastern Condiments is all set to become the largest integrated condiments processor in the country by increasing its capacity to 300 tonnes a day. Eastern Condiments, national award winner for outstanding performance in exporting branded spices masala mix and curry powder for 10 successive years, has clocked a turnover of Rs.200 crore in the financial year 2007-08.

He said the capacity expansion is part of a series of efforts to consolidate market leadership of the company and expanding to new areas. The flagship company of the group has started production from its new facilities after the installation of technologically advanced imported machinery and successfully conducting product trials.

The current capacity expansion was undertaken with an investment of Rs.50 crore. Eastern Condiments also plans to set up a chilli processing plant at Guntur in Andhra Pradesh, coriander plant at Rajasthan and an export unit at Kothamangalam.

The group’s factories, which have the capacity to process one lakh bags of chillies every day, are all set to achieve a target of six lakh bags daily after the completion of the three new plants. The group is exporting 50 container (each container can handle about 15 tonnes) loads of processed spices and curry mix each month but this is to be doubled within two months. The Kothamangalam plant, which is fully export-oriented, would be able to cater to the needs of West Asia and European markets, Mr. Meeran said.

The group is also planning to move to the bulk export sector, especially to the European Union, and to achieve a target of more than 100 tonnes a day by the year 2010. Thirty per cent of the total revenue is contributed by the export division of the group, he said in response to a query. He said that the unique business model employed by the Eastern Group, by making every distributor a partner by providing additional incentive, has succeeded in its entering into new markets.

According to Nawas Meeran, managing director of Eastern, the group is making a major foray into the western region, especially in Maharashtra and Gujarat where there is a big demand for spices from Kerala. The number of vehicles of the group in Mumbai alone has risen to 61 after launching the scheme a year ago, he said. The joint venture with United Arab Emirates-based Jaleel Traders for processing spices is about to commence

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/07/stories/2008060755161700.htm

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 7, 2008, 11:54 AM

Marine Drive in Kochi is the costliest kilometer and a half in Kerala. NRIs seems to be flocking to it, driving prices up to USD 1-2 million per apartment.

The Price of being posh

A gorgeous sunset view, boat jetties bobbing in the water, the famous Chinese fishing nets and the gentle breeze from Vembanad Lake. All this has made Marine Drive in Kochi one of the costliest piece of land in Kerala. And non-resident Indians are the ones who are shelling out the big bucks for the luxury apartments. Real-estate prices have risen from Rs 2,500 per square feet from three years ago to Rs 11,000 per square feet.

BR Ajith, Chief Executive Architect of Ajith Associates said ,"Kochi has the potential for another 30 years. If a foreigner investor internationally can think that way, there should be some reasons for that. The most important reason is that it is a beautiful location of Kochi, in the midst of beautiful trees, lots of greenery around and one of the best airports in the country. It means we are well connected and have a beautiful port with a lot of international passenger vessels calling on the port."

More homes in the offing

About 15 or more construction projects are going on. Developers like Prestige, Dewa Projects, EMAAR Group and DLF have pumped in an estimated investment of Rs 1,500 crore into these constructions. Prestige is offering 3 tier triplex and two tier duplex versions of pent houses with a personal swimming pool for a neat sum of Rs 8 crore and above.

According to developers, most of the apartments seem to be out-of-reach for the average Kochiite. Marine Drive certainly seems to changed the dynamics of realty prices in Kerala.

LINK (http://cibercitycochinindia.blogspot.com/2008/06/kochis-marine-drive-is-costliest-realty.html#links)

manusmad

Jun 9, 2008, 3:25 AM

Just a query ... which is the highrise u/c on the right side just after the flyover while going from Vyttila to Palarivattom? Is it Swapnil Regency?

bhasidali

Jun 9, 2008, 4:59 AM

Just a query ... which is the highrise u/c on the right side just after the flyover while going from Vyttila to Palarivattom? Is it Swapnil Regency?

No..its Jomer Symphony....I can count 23rd OR 24th floor under construction....:)

scorpiogenius

Jun 9, 2008, 9:02 AM

No..its Jomer Symphony....I can count 23rd OR 24th floor under construction....:)

Yeah, it goes upto 26 floors and will be the among the tallest in Cochin now, doesn't it?

http://i27.tinypic.com/2vxr8cm.jpg

You could see it in the frame here. It is an imposing view even at 24-25 levels, when you come down the bridge leading to Vytilla. Just imagine how the 40 storied structures would hyperextend your neck at Edapally!

http://i27.tinypic.com/fnfhiu.jpg

manusmad

Jun 9, 2008, 4:28 PM

Thanks Bhasid & Scorpio, Jomer Symphony is looking really good, and is even prominent when seen from Vyttila Jn.

PLUS

Jun 9, 2008, 6:17 PM

This one is a 24 storey at Kakkanad. Jomer tower is 26 storey for a comparison.
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/669/7429xf2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

By the way, what happened with our earlier topic of discussion ? What happened to the SEZs ? Whatever happened to some high-power committee headed by CM ?

PLUS

Jun 10, 2008, 1:06 PM

Ministry of environment has 30 projects pending for clearance
in Kerala of which 24 are at Kochi.

List now has some new projects, but mostly known ones. RDS-Rajagiri is also
there.

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 10, 2008, 2:25 PM

Earthrace powers on
Having successfully completed massive repairs, the world’s fastest eco-boat Earthrace has departed from Singapore to Cochin, India to complete its attempt to break the world record for circumnavigating the globe in a powerboat.
Earthrace, a 24m tri-hull wavepiercer that operates on biofuel, is still more than 1,550 miles ahead of the world record pace, set by the British Cable and Wireless team in 1998, despite the delays for repairs.

A number of companies, such as POSH SEMCO, Assetton and its project sponsor J B Global, stepped forward to provide Earthrace with support for expedient repairs for damages sustained in Palau, which were carried out in three days.

Skipper Pete Bethune said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity we’ve received in Singapore. After the accident in Palau we began to doubt whether we still had a shot at the world record, but now the boat is back in top shape and weather conditions for the leg to Cochin are great.”Mr Bethune said the attempt was to show the world the potential for sustainable fuels and if the voyage proceeds as planned, Earthrace would be able to finish the trip 17 days ahead of the world record.

The boat’s up-to-date progress can be viewed via the live satellite tracker at www.earthrace.net.
LINK (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/06/after-sinagpore-cochin-is-next.html)

PLUS

Jun 10, 2008, 5:28 PM

21 floor twin towers, Alliance Group, Kakkanad

http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/9586/greenmount2im9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

sakrishna

Jun 10, 2008, 6:17 PM

sakrishna

Jun 10, 2008, 6:21 PM

Source: http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/10/stories/2008061058540200.htm

Green cover project for city
Photo: Vipin Chandran
http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/10/images/2008061058540201.jpg
GREEN DRIVE: Forest Minister Benoy Viswom (in the background) applauds as Simon Britto, MLA, plants a sapling at Maharaja’s College on Monday as part of the college’s tree planting project for the city.
The idea is to have a green cover for Kochi. As the construction boom is turning the city into a multi-storeyed concrete jungle, the drive for tree canopies becomes more important. A project with such an aim took shape in the Nature Club of the Maharaja’s College and it began with a sapling being planted by Simon Britto, MLA, who had provided funds for the same.
The Minister for Forests, Binoy Vishwom, formally launched the project. The most effective way to clean the air of carbon dioxide is to have more trees. And the Department of Forests has been promoting a string of projects under the Social Forestry scheme.
On Environment Day, taking to the streets on cycles with a message of carbon-free transportation were representatives of Green Doctors — a youth forum of the Swadeshi Science Movement. A. Jayakumar, national organising secretary of Vijnana Bharathi, flagged off the rally from the High Court junction.
About 40 youngsters cycled around the city with an aim to spread the message of environment-friendly practices in daily life. Unfortunately, there were hardly any people on the road to witness the campaign, due to the hartal.
Some of the corporates, however, organised Environment Day a day later. The Recreation Club of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. organised a programme at which the principal general manager, Charlie Mathew, planted a sapling on the occasion. Thereafter, a lecture was held on the State government’s Clean Kerala Mission. The District Mission Coordinator, N. Vinodini, spoke on the topic.
Shyama Rajagopal

elm07

Jun 10, 2008, 7:17 PM

thats some good thinking .......

Source: http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/10/stories/2008061058540200.htm

elm07

Jun 10, 2008, 8:05 PM

nice shot PLUS ... feels good to see all these projects finally achieving fruition :tup:

This one is a 24 storey at Kakkanad. Jomer tower is 26 storey for a comparison.
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/669/7429xf2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

By the way, what happened with our earlier topic of discussion ? What happened to the SEZs ? Whatever happened to some high-power committee headed by CM ?

PLUS

Jun 11, 2008, 2:01 PM

That's not my shot. Taken from Mather website. Sorry - forgot to mention.

Yemenia to fly Kochi

More air links out of Yemen planned
9:37 PM :: 0 Comments :: [Article Rating] :: Airline News, India, UAE/Gulf

DUBAI: Yemen Airlines, known as Yemenia, is gearing up for a major expansion in Gulf region and Asia.

Area manager Muneer Mohammad Jahwash says the carrier will open two sectors this year - Sharjah to Kochi and Sharjah to Sana'a. Calcutta and Hyderabad are also being considered.

bijugp

Jun 11, 2008, 4:06 PM

CIAL website shows a Tender for Phase 3 expansion of International Terminal. What is in Phase 3??

http://www.cochin-airport.in/tender/tenderdetails.aspx?tender_id=63

PLUS

Jun 11, 2008, 5:14 PM

CIAL website shows a Tender for Phase 3 expansion of International Terminal. What is in Phase 3??

http://www.cochin-airport.in/tender/tenderdetails.aspx?tender_id=63

Work cost seems to be just Rs.2.5 crore. Must be some electrical works in the
upcoming departure terminal.
The next major terminal work at CIAL is the expansion of domestic terminal.
This will happen this year.

PLUS

Jun 11, 2008, 5:21 PM

Glimpse of Cochin
From Taj Malabar

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6049/2549830220687d0cc778bvp6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Photo : adidaswing24 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/laurenve/)

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/4631/254936778688d8930851bop8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Märcù (http://www.flickr.com/photos/marc-staub/)

See more photos in Cochin gallery (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=125909)

abhilash

Jun 12, 2008, 8:11 AM

I heard that King Fisher Airlines to fly to Gulf sector from September 2008 from CIAL.
I found this in one of the leading daily.

Can somebody confirm on this???

abhilash

Jun 12, 2008, 8:12 AM

Kottakal unit at Thrikkakkara

KOCHI: A new Ayurvedic hospital of the Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala will start functioning at Thrikkakkara near here on June 13.

P.K. Warrier, the managing trustee of the institution, will inaugurate the hospital.

The new hospital will have all the treatment facilities being provided at Vaidya Sala’s base at Kottakkal, S. Purushothaman, general manager, said at a press conference here on Wednesday.

The new hospital with a built-up space of 50,000 sq.ft has been set up at a cost of about Rs. 8 crore.

The hospital stands on an area of two acres.

It has 80 beds, seven air-conditioned suite rooms, 24 air-conditioned double rooms and dormitory facility.

The new hospital has been set up considering the convenience of the people in central Kerala.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/12/stories/2008061260541000.htm

nisanth

Jun 12, 2008, 10:34 AM

Two days before there was a news in asianet about "kochi high". reported that petrolium basin foud in cochin ("kochi high") is bigger than bombay high.

any knowledge?

PLUS

Jun 12, 2008, 1:07 PM

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/2591/25650969069ac1a02895bgd3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
photo : dendapani (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14330644@N06/)

PLUS

Jun 12, 2008, 1:49 PM

I heard that King Fisher Airlines to fly to Gulf sector from September 2008 from CIAL.
I found this in one of the leading daily.

Can somebody confirm on this???

Deccan, Jetlite are flying from CIAL in 2008 confirmed. This may be what
you heard - Kingfisher had bought out Deccan recently.

thunderboltz

Jun 12, 2008, 6:42 PM

Two days before there was a news in asianet about "kochi high". reported that petrolium basin foud in cochin ("kochi high") is bigger than bombay high.

any knowledge?

No, I don't think this news is correct. This news made rounds in the Deepika some time ago as well. Recently it was there in the papers that Reliance backed out from explorations on the Kerala shore as there was no substantial findings here. That move would've been unlikely if had they made such a discovery here.

PLUS

Jun 12, 2008, 6:59 PM

MG Road views
Near Ravipuram
http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/5938/2564812108864d1054f1oon1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/9779/256398245584453e1caeokj3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Watch more in Cochin gallery (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=125909)
photo : Auggie69 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/38226056@N00/)

PLUS

Jun 12, 2008, 7:17 PM

CIAL domestic terminal shot from an Indigo aircraft
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/5026/2552717573e658863abdokf4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
photo : Aiel (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nitinmnair/)

Notice the aerobridges are not yet up. International terminal already have
4 aerobridges. Ineptitude crept into CIALs management in last one year.
Although 5 aerobridges have been bought, only 4 has been installed.
Anyway MD has been removed the the new one has already
acted to bring projects back on track. There is a lot to be done, first the
expansion of domestic which now handles more passengers than international
and then a parallel runway within next 2 years

PLUS

Jun 12, 2008, 7:20 PM

No, I don't think this news is correct. This news made rounds in the Deepika some time ago as well. Recently it was there in the papers that Reliance backed out from explorations on the Kerala shore as there was no substantial findings here. That move would've been unlikely if had they made such a discovery here.

Reliance does not explore Kochi high, ONGC does. If they have a clear statement
it will be made official. So lets wait instead of guesstimations

thunderboltz

Jun 12, 2008, 8:28 PM

Reliance does not explore Kochi high, ONGC does. If they have a clear statement
it will be made official. So lets wait instead of guesstimations

I believe Reliance bagged exploration rights for the Kerala-Konkan blocks. I remember reading that Reliance had pulled out on its own, but now that I check, this website http://www.energy-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=B06589C0-D8B9-49C1-A45F-501E4C5BA12A seems to suggest that the government ordered it to, for lagging on with the work.

abhilash

Jun 13, 2008, 3:55 AM

IBS Campus at Infopark

http://www.manoramaonline.com/cgi-bin/MMOnline.dll/portal/ep/malayalamContentView.do?contentType=EDITORIAL&programId=1073753761&articleType=Malayalam%20News&contentId=4105709&BV_ID=@@@

abhilash

Jun 13, 2008, 3:57 AM

Plant inauguration on June 20

KOCHI: The solid waste treatment plant of the Kochi Corporation at Brahmapuram will be inaugurated on June 20.

Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandnan will inaugurate the plant at a function to be held at 11 a.m.

Though it was earlier decided that the plant will be inaugurated on June 23, the authorities decided to advance the inauguration date as the State Assembly session has been scheduled to begin on that day.

The treatment plant was set up by the Andhra Pradesh Technology Development Corporation (APTDC) on a build-operate-transfer mode for the Corporation.

The APTDC will run the plant for one year. Though not formally inaugurated, the plant had been functioning for nearly one month.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/13/stories/2008061361560300.htm

PLUS

Jun 13, 2008, 5:34 AM

Crowne Plaza and Gold Souk gets environmental clearance

These projects earlier went into trouble over environmental issues

http://164.100.194.13:8080/allied_envclr/getAgendaMettingMinutesSchedule.do?indCode=NCPApr%2003,%202008

PLUS

Jun 13, 2008, 7:46 AM

World class univ at Kochi to come under special act

14 Central universities of global standards to come up

Patiala, June 13 (PTI) As many as 14 universities comparable to major institutions across the globe will be set in the country through a Central act, a top UGC official has said.
They will be located in Pune, Kolkata, Coimbatore, Mysore, Visakhapatnam, Gandhinagar, Jaipur, Patna, Bhopal, Kochi, Amritsar, Bhubaneswar, Greater Noida and Guwahati, University Grants Commission (UGC) Vice Chairman Mool Chand Sharma said.

Maintaining that these institutions would be of global standards, he told reporters yesterday the varsities would be established under an act.

Their locations have been decided keeping in mind the connectivity and the infrastructure which such universities would need, Sharma said, adding the contour and shape of these varsities would be defined under the act.
http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf/0/80F9620BFE8EA236652574670021E54A?OpenDocument

PLUS

Jun 13, 2008, 7:48 AM

Le Logiciel commences operations from Kochi

Le Logiciel a dynamic IT company with a difference, delivering consultancy services, business solutions, ITES and products to enterprises worldwide, commenced operations out of Leela Infopark at Kakkanad in Kochi on the 15th May 2008. "Le Logiciel has been built upon humble beginnings and is poised to grow with achievable revenue forecasts for the years ahead. With a dedicated team of best-of-breed talented professionals, we have built a robust and profitable practice", feels Mr. R Jayshankar, CEO, Le Logiciel.

With its sophisticated applications, resources, and highly committed team of professionals they ensures success of various organizations worldwide by enhancing their businesses with specialized applications. The R & D division of the firm, offers complete range of IT Services addressing the needs of both technology and business requirements to benefit customers leverage leading-edge technologies for the overall business improvement and ROI.

http://www.expresscomputeronline.com/20080616/intelligentstatekerala05.shtml

PLUS

Jun 13, 2008, 9:18 AM

CUSAT upgradation to IIEST moves forward

With the world class central university also coming up, Kochi will
have two multidisciplinary institutes of excellence a rarity among Indian
cities.

In a letter (folio number 11-5/2006-TS.1) dated 27 May, MHRD stated that a committee will be formed to “assess all financial and administrative implications of the take over of the two state universities, namely Besu and Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi”.
The letter stated that the committee will submit its report to the Expenditure Finance Committee (EPC) and after it nods, it will be placed before the cabinet.
The committee will be headed by the ministry's joint secretary, Mr NK Sinha and include the HRD financial advisor, Prof DV Singh, vice president of Indian National Academy of Planning, MHRD director (technical) and vice-chancellors of the two universities. According MHRD's letter of intent in December 2007, Besu was scheduled to be upgraded to IIEST in 2008 and enrolment of students in IIEST was to start from the academic session of 2008-2009. http://www.thestatesman.net/page.arcview.php?date=2008-06-08&usrsess=1&clid=6&id=234045

abhilash

Jun 14, 2008, 4:26 AM

‘Metro rail will be a boon to Kochi’

Nedumbassery: The proposed Metro railway project in Kochi would prove to be valuable in future as the city would face acute land shortage even for developing its roads, M. Ramachandran, Union Urban Development Ministry Secretary, has said.

He said the project was designed in such way that it did not affect any future development projects or the present traffic system in the city. “The city is going to accommodate some really huge development projects within the next 15 years and the elevated track will prove to be valuable for both the commuters as well as for the town planners”, he said.

On the status of the project, he said the Centre was deliberating on the State’s demand for equal participation by the Centre in the project. He, however, added that a big push at the ministerial level would be essential to expedite the procedures for its approval by the Planning Commission.

Out of the total five Metro projects in the country, those in Kolkata, Delhi and Bangalore have been taken up with the Centre’s participation. The other two, in Hyderabad and Mumbai, are being implemented with the help of private players.

Mr. Ramachandran said that government participation in the project was essential in fixing the fares at a rate benefiting the common man. He suggested that the services by the international banks such as the Japanese Bank for International Co-operation (JBIC) with just 1.5% interest with a 10-year moratorium on repayment and another 20-year period for repayment could be made useful in financing the project.

Referring to the ongoing protests by traders in the city against the proposal, he warned that such protests might lead to scrapping of the project as the proposal was under the review panel of the Planning Commission for an in-principle approval.

“There are chances of the review panel taking into account their responses to the project and that may adversely affect the required in-principle approval by the authority”.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/14/stories/2008061461701000.htm

abhilash

Jun 14, 2008, 4:29 AM

‘Cusat wants to be an IIT, not IIEST’

KOCHI: Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has conveyed to the Union Ministry of Human Resources Development that it should be upgraded into an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and not an Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology (IIEST).

Confirming the decision, Vice-Chancellor Gangan Prathap told The Hindu here on Friday that he had conveyed this message to the joint secretary of the Ministry during a recent meeting held in New Delhi. The Ministry had convened the meet to discuss the budgetary provisions for the proposed IIESTs in the country.

Asking why Cusat should not be upgraded into an IIT, Dr. Prathap said the State failed to get the status of the prestigious institution at a time when the Union government had sanctioned eight more IITs across the country. “We had a just claim. But it was not given,” he said.

Pointing out that the university had actually requested for an IIT status and not an IIEST, Dr. Prathap said the Union Ministry had agreed to provide the framework of a National Institute of Technology for the proposed IIEST. It is reliably learnt that the Vice-Chancellor had actually conveyed the government stance on the IIEST issue during the meeting in New Delhi.

Sources in the Higher Education Department said the government feared that it might lose an opportunity to have an IIT while accepting the proposal for converting Cusat into an IIEST. The Chief Minister and Education Minister had stepped up their efforts to secure an IIT for the State, the sources said.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/06/14/stories/2008061452480500.htm

ani07

Jun 14, 2008, 4:36 AM

Godrej Properties ,2 million sq ft residential complex on 15 acres-

http://www.sebi.gov.in/dp/godrejdrhp.pdf

PLUS

Jun 14, 2008, 4:44 AM

Godrej Properties ,2 million sq ft residential complex on 15 acres-

http://www.sebi.gov.in/dp/godrejdrhp.pdf

Awesome, Ani.

It is actually 2.83 million sq ft close to 3 million sq ft. And of course it is coming at
Kakkanad.

KMC

Jun 14, 2008, 7:37 AM

Godrej Properties ,2 million sq ft residential complex on 15 acres-

http://www.sebi.gov.in/dp/godrejdrhp.pdf

WAAWW , thats a Mega News ,
Hopefully it will be on the lines of Planet Godrej.

PLUS

Jun 14, 2008, 3:33 PM

The Chatterjee Group's (TCG) biggest investment in India at Kochi

* 5.4 million sq ft to be developed in 3 phases over 10 years.

* Phase I to have 2 million sq ft to be completed by March 2011.

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/2992/tcgqe6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 14, 2008, 10:43 PM

A chronicle of a Cultural Melting Pot,Cosmopolitan City and a Great Trading Centre
Cochin, described as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, was an important trading centre. Travellers and tradesmen of ancient times make copious reference to Cochin. Successive waves of migration over thousands of years made Cochin a cultural melting pot, a cosmopolitan city and a great trading centre.

The first European settlement in India was at Fort Cochin by the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch and finally the British. It was during the British rule, in 1857 (when the rest of the country was convulsed by the uprising against their rule), that three like–minded British businessmen set up the Cochin Chamber of Commerce to safeguard their trading and commercial interests.

It grew into a vibrant institution and later got involved in issues that had a bearing on national economic policy, as revealed in the commemorative volume of the Cochin Chamber of Commerce and Industry, A Journey Through Time — 1857-2007.

Compiled and edited by P Sethuram, M K Das and V N Venugopal, the book is in three parts. The first traces the history of the Chamber and the history and development of trade in Cochin. In the early days the role of the Chamber was mostly concerned with cargo export and import from the harbour. The history of the Chamber was entwined with that of the harbour. Legitimate business interests were the guiding principles of the Chamber, which became a member of the Madras Chamber of Commerce in 1920.

Since independence, the Chamber has been mainly interested in the principal export trade of the region like cashew, spices, marine products etc. and the plantation industry and in the common welfare of Cochin as an economic centre.
READ MORE (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/06/cochin-tapestry-chronicle-of-cultural.html#links)

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 14, 2008, 10:48 PM

MUMBAI: TajSATS, a leading air catering service company, has embarked on an expansion plan to set up 15 kitchens in five years. The joint venture between Indian Hotels Company and Singapore Airport Terminal Services will pump in close to Rs 400 crore to finance the entire exercise.

Sunil Taneja, Marketing and Business Development director, TajSATS, said the decision followed the recent spurt in air catering business. “The air catering business grew 20% last year, riding on a 30% growth in passenger traffic,” he said.

The company has recently set up kitchens in Goa, Bangalore and Amritsar. It may be looking at tier II cities like Nagpur, Guwahati, Cochin, Amritsar, Calicut and Pune where the existing airports are being upgraded. TajSATS generates revenues of around Rs 300 crore, which is nearly half of the total industry’s figures. Other players in this space include Oberoi, Ambassador and Skygourmet. Mr Taneja said the expansion plan will be funded internally. “We know that the margin is under pressure, but our overall business is expanding in India. We think that we will be the first choice if we have operations in tier II cities,” he added.
LINK (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/06/tajsatsjoint-venture-between-indian.html#links)

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 14, 2008, 10:56 PM

The informal sector in Kerala is regulated by bureaucratic high-handedness. Various flaws exist in licensing of occupations like, auto-rickshaw driving, slaughtering, cobbling etc. Ironically, this state is pro-poor and is known for trade unionism..
THE LAST time I was in Cochin, I didn’t pay much attention to the auto-rickshaws plying on the city’s busy streets. They were just my sole means of conveyance. But on my next trip, I will. And you wonder why such a change in attitude! All credit goes to the law, liberty and livelihood project, a study conducted by think-tanks of the centre for public policy research (CPPR) and the centre for civil society (CCS).

The study, which was aimed at documenting the livelihood regulations and entry level barriers in the informal sector, was conducted in 63 cities across India with the help of young interns.

In Cochin, it was coordinated by the CPPR staffer Caroline C. The purpose aimed at unveiling the laws applicable to entry-level professions like cycle-rickshaw pullers, mobile and stationery street vendors and to document them with the effort to create public attention to issues faced by them. The study is funded by the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT), Mumbai.

There, the licencing of trades is regulated by the Corporation of Cochin under the purview of the Kerala municipalities Act and Rules 1994. The Corporation issues two types of licences; namely, dangerous and offensive trade licences, and prevention of food adulteration licence.
READ MORE (http://cochinoverseasfundsociety.blogspot.com/2008/06/cppr-center-for-public-policy-research.html)

PLUS

Jun 15, 2008, 5:58 AM

Tribute from film industry to MG Road. :)

Not just for production and post-production, Kochi seems to be the place for
seeding ideas too :)

Coffee chat
Friday June 13 2008 11:04 IST

Tessa George

http://www.newindpress.com/images/June08%5Cchat.jpg

If they say they talk, walk, dream, drink, eat and breathe music, don’t get dazed. It is true in the case of Shaan Rahman and Vineeth Srinivasan.

Their new music album Coffee@MG Road, released last month, had quite a few surprises for music lovers. The music director and singer along with their friends Jakes Bejoy and Arjun Sasi (S5 fame) are back with a bang; with a blend of the western and the eastern this time.

The first album of the two- Malayalee- was a super hit and they are hoping that the same magic will be repeated with Coffee@MG Road.

“These songs took shape during the late night talks we had at the coffee shops on MG Road (Kochi),” says Shaan. After having coffee from one of the shops, we would hop onto one of our houses to work on that song. We really enjoyed making all the songs,” says Vineeth. http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IEO20080613004241&Page=O&Title=Thiruvananthapuram&Topic=0

fabi1012002

Jun 16, 2008, 8:28 AM

one more mall add to the list Q1 mall promoted by nippon tayota. www.nipponinfra.com

abhilash

Jun 16, 2008, 8:39 AM

one more mall add to the list Q1 mall promoted by nippon tayota. the big news is that nippon tayota is building the biggest tayota showroom in asia at kalamassery. www.nipponinfra.com

Wwaaaahh!!!!!
Is it exclusive for Toyota cars
Or
Is it a car Mall

fabi1012002

Jun 16, 2008, 8:42 AM

its mall cum office space,total space of 440,000sft...its in between edapally bypass and vytilla.

tonapz

Jun 16, 2008, 8:44 AM

Wat does this ad mean:

HOLIDAY begins in Kerala on June 21st.

There are quite a few hoarding having this ad along with an H Logo!
Can anyone tell me wat its all about!

PLUS

Jun 16, 2008, 11:30 AM

one more mall add to the list Q1 mall promoted by nippon tayota. www.nipponinfra.com

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/9495/elevation02kw0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

PLUS

Jun 16, 2008, 11:31 AM

Wat does this ad mean:

HOLIDAY begins in Kerala on June 21st.

There are quite a few hoarding having this ad along with an H Logo!
Can anyone tell me wat its all about!

Just a guess - Holiday Inn ? How far has the construction progressed

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 16, 2008, 1:40 PM

KOCHI: Young, charming women armed with the gift of the gab and are modern, yet uphold traditional Kerala values, can try their luck at this year’s Miss Kerala pageant.

The pageant will be held on July 11, in Kochi.
The event was announced by the reigning Miss Kerala, Rohini Mariam Idicula, and Ram Menon, director of Impresario event managers, by unveiling its logo.
Read Full Story (http://visittraveltourincochinkeralaindia.blogspot.com/2008/06/cochinkochi-to-host-miss-kerala-pageant.html#links)

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 16, 2008, 1:43 PM

Kochi, Jun 16 (PTI) The 'Queen of Arabian Sea' and home to one of the most ancient natural ports in the world, Kochi is gearing up to host the India stopover of the prestigious Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09, the world's premier offshore yachting event.
The nine-month Volvo Ocean Race is the most spectacular round of the World Marathon Ocean Yacht Racing competition and is seen as the ultimate in extreme adventure sporting, N Ramachandran, Chairman, Cochin Port Trust, said.

This is the first time in its 35-year history that the race would be stopping over in India, he said. On its third leg, the race would stop here in December this year.
READ FULL STORY (http://visittraveltourincochinkeralaindia.blogspot.com/2008/06/cochinkochi-gets-ready-to-host-stopover.html)

JMen

Jun 17, 2008, 3:42 AM

Accolade:

http://img125.imageshack.us/img125/7350/accoladekj3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Atma:

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8807/atmaso6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Source: www.gokulam.com

tonapz

Jun 17, 2008, 4:52 AM

Just a guess - Holiday Inn ? How far has the construction progressed

I don't think the Ad is about Holiday Inn, becoz of two reasons.

1. Construction of the IndRoyal Holiday Inn Hotel is not yet completed, its a long way to go.
2. The logo in the ad is different from that of the Holiday Inn logo!

srid

Jun 17, 2008, 5:09 AM

Wat does this ad mean:

HOLIDAY begins in Kerala on June 21st.

There are quite a few hoarding having this ad along with an H Logo!
Can anyone tell me wat its all about!
Hi, it's a new builder , promoted by an NRI group setting foot in Cochin - the Holiday group. They are coming up with projects in Kakkanad and Marine drive areas. They have their press meet on 19th June and formal launch of their group and projects in Le-Meridien on 21st.

ani07

Jun 17, 2008, 5:10 AM

Crown Plaza interiors -
http://www.edifice.co.in/html/pages/hotels/kochi_home.html

srid

Jun 17, 2008, 5:31 AM

Just a guess - Holiday Inn ? How far has the construction progressed

Hi, it's a new builder , promoted by an NRI group setting foot in Cochin - the Holiday group. They are coming up with projects in Kakkanad and Marine drive areas. They have their press meet on 19th June and formal launch of their group and projects in Le-Meridien on 21st.

PLUS

Jun 17, 2008, 1:50 PM

Some smaller projects of 14-15 floors

Mather Serenade, Palarivattom
http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/3752/serenadeelexr9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

National empress Garden, Vennala
http://img372.imageshack.us/img372/3750/garden11nh4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

PLUS

Jun 17, 2008, 3:01 PM

Here is a photographer gone on clicking tall buildings at Kochi.
Can anyone identify them ?

where is this ?
http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/8440/25838516747654c0a904orh5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

This one looks really tall - 25 floors ? Somewhere in Vyttila Palarivattom stretch i guess.
http://img111.imageshack.us/img111/3983/25827526555b0677f419omx6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

May be same as above, or am i wrong ?
http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/3825/25837335946324dae218olt8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

??
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/5352/25837335905f9a3e7e0eobf9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img380.imageshack.us/img380/1039/2582782171192261171coye6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img380.imageshack.us/img380/8172/258358956048da15c3e4oug4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/2959/25827526497cee5969c4org0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/1920/25827526474015d4abafoap1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/6959/25827526436346da6ebaoga8.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/7830/2582752653195a8e8140ogb0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/7879/258278215756551f3a68oco3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

This is Metro One Kaloor. Its close to complete, when is it opening ? Pantaloon's HQ
for Kerala operations will be here. Is license being denied for this retailer ?
http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/6222/2583733584e1f6f95b8doxl4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Photo : phanivk's (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58218164@N00/)

ani07

Jun 18, 2008, 6:07 AM

Gokulam Convention Centre to open by August 2008

Gokulam Park Inn, Kochi is conveniently located in the city's business and prime shopping hub. Gokulam Park Inn is only a stone's throw from the railway station and 30 kms from the Kochi International Airport. Class, elegance and grace flow through the tastefully done lobby, public areas and guest rooms. The hotel offers the privileged business person and discerning traveller, 65 comfortable rooms consisting of a Presidential Suite, 6 suites and a mix of well-appointed double and twin rooms. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities - electronic locks, mini-bar fridges, in-room safes, central air-conditioned bathtubs and a vast array of television channels, amongst other regular international features.

The much-awaited convention centre just behind the hotel is due to be opened this August. "We are planning to open the convention centre by August 2008, which is one of the largest in Kerala having a total capacity of 5000 pax. It is a space for any occasion. You name it we have it", says Sabrish Gopalan, executive director, Sree Gokulam Hotel India. The centre will have four different spaces to cater to all needs, a main hall which can hold almost 1800 to 2000 pax, an open space for almost 1000 pax, another mini hall which can hold upto 900 pax and finally a dining hall which can hold upto 700 pax. There are also some other spaces for small events. Some of the features of this center include, very comfortable retractable seating, 25,000 watts state-of-the-art flying speakers, choices of lighting for different occasions, Wi-fi connectivity and parking facility for almost 700 vehicles.

Gopalan added, "A boutique hotel, which is first of its kind in Kochi, will be attached to the convention centre. It consists of all the latest designs and concepts, which are used, in the hospitality industry. Just to name some, our dining area is an exclusive interactive kitchen with restaurant. The guests can actually interact with chefs very closely and probably learn or make their own dish". In the restaurant every time you turn around you feel there is a difference in the ambience.

A consultant named Cedric Bussien from Switzerland will design the total ambience, which is programmed to change colour in a given period of time.

In January 2008, they opened the first Resto-Spa in Kochi. Yovan Resto - Spa, a place to just relax is located in the hotel. Its an ideal place for businessmen to have a swim or have an Oriental massages after a busy day. "I believe it is not sufficient for a business hotel to just provide facility for the business purpose. We should provide them a space where they can come and just refresh their mind body and soul. This will indirectly help in their productivity. This Spa has been created with utmost attention to all detail. When the Spa is closed in the evening, it gets transformed to a Seafood restaurant, where we offer you the best relaxing ambience for a restaurant by the poolside", he added.

http://www.expresstravelworld.com/200806/backwaters07.shtml

tonapz

Jun 18, 2008, 6:43 AM

Another Jewellery Groupcoming to kochi.
"Tribhovandas Bhimji Zaveri -the original" is setting up their showroom in kochi. *(source manorama avasarangal).

Institute of Clinical Research (India) is setting up their campus in Kochi.
*(source manorama avasarangal).

abhilash

Jun 18, 2008, 7:18 AM

scorpiogenius

Jun 18, 2008, 9:37 AM

^^

But isn't TBZ already operating from Cochin, from the Alukkas House @ Jos Jn??

tonapz

Jun 18, 2008, 11:29 AM

^^

But isn't TBZ already operating from Cochin, from the Alukkas House @ Jos Jn??

Well this is a dedicated store for TBZ.
TBZ first operated from Alappat @ Jos Junction not anymore.

AbrahamVCherry

Jun 18, 2008, 1:23 PM

Does anybody know far the Airport Company has gone in Phase 2 and Phase 3 of their expansion plans???

Phase-II

In the Phase-II Airport Expansion Programme, the following developmental works have been planned/carried out:

1. Construction of full length of parallel taxi track, which has been already completed.
2. Construction of additional numbers of parking bays to meet the increased air traffic growth. Increase the number of parking bays to 14 Nos.
3. Expansion of the capacity of International Terminal from 1,25,000 sq.ft. to 4,78,000 sq.ft. with a peak hour passenger handling capacity of 1200 incoming and 1200 outgoing.
4. An exclusive Cargo Terminal for handling the perishable cargo with 25,000 sq.ft. area, with a handling capacity of 25,000 tonnes per annum.
5. Upgradation of Rescue and Fire Fighting Facility to Category-9.

Phase-III Expansion Plans

In order to meet the future demands in the aero and non-aero sectors, CIAL has planned the following:

1. Acquisition of 1000 acres of land.
2. Construction of parallel runway alongwith its associated facilities.
3. Integrated new passenger terminal.
4. Exclusive Cargo Village
5. Upgradation of Airport for A-380 operations.

Diversification Plans

Cochin International Airport is having approximately 500 acres of land, which has been ear marked for the commercial utilization. The following projects have been ear marked in this 500 acres of land:

a) Aviation Activities :

1. Aviation Maintenance Centre
2. Aviation Training Academy

b) Business Activities:

1. Industrial Park catering to IT, ITES, Biotechnology, Gem and Jewellery, other knowledge based & specialized industries.
2. Integrated Logistics Centre
3. Educational Institutions
4. Speciality Hospital

c) Leisure Activities

1. 5Star and 3 Star Hotels
2. Convention Centre & Exihibition Centre

3. Golf Course

d) Entertainment & Cultural Activities

1. Multiplexes
2. Hyper Malls/Shopping Mall/Retail
3. Food Court
4. Family Entertainment Centre & Amusement Parks
5. Trade & Cultural Village

CIAL has already initiated action plan for the implementation of the above projects and time bounded schedules have been finalized.

Airport Consultancy

As a part of the diversification scheme, CIAL is planning to start Airport Consultancy Services. At present, CIAL is the only firm in India and even in the world, which is having unique expertise on airport master planning, cost evaluation, project implementation and airport operations.

A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be mooted by CIAL for the implementation of the above.

CII (http://cii.in/menu_content.php?menu_id=1082)