The Hindu Business Line : Rs 981-cr plan for Kochi infrastructure ready

THE State Government has drawn up infrastructure development schemes estimated to cost Rs 981 crore for the city of Kochi, which is about to witness the implementation of a host of mega projects in the hinterland.

Announcing this in the State Assembly on Tuesday, the Chief Minister, Mr Oommen Chandy, said the development of the Vallarpadam International Container Terminal, the LNG Terminal and the Special Economic Zone would necessitate the development of matching infrastructural facilities in the city.

Replying to questions, the Chief Minister said the Government had already prepared a Rs 676-crore scheme for improving drinking water supply in Kochi. It was now being proposed to implement an infrastructure development project worth Rs 305 crore with assistance from the Asian Development Bank.

An exclusive agency will be constituted to look after the developmental aspects of the city, much in the lines of the Capital City Development Agency in Thiruvananthapuram.

A conference of the local peoples' representatives will be convened to discuss developmental matters relating to the city.

No price spiral from VAT: The Finance Minister, Mr Vakkom Purushothaman, has said that introduction of the value-added tax will not lead to any increase in the prices of essential commodities.

Replying to questions, the Minister said revenue losses resulting from the implementation of VAT would be compensated during the first three years. As per the agreement with the Centre, the State would be compensated to the extent of 100 per cent in the first year, 75 per cent in the second and 50 per cent in the third.

`Striking Force' to be set up: The Minister, who also holds the Excise portfolio, said that the State Government would set up a `Striking Force' to tone up vehicle checking in a bid to control smuggling of rectified spirit into the State.

Apart from beefing up the intelligence wing of the Excise Department, it is also proposed to set up 24-hour control rooms to crack down on illicit liquor trade.

In this connection, he requested cooperation of the public since Government officials alone could not be expected to find a lasting solution to the problem.

During the last six months, 1.6 lakh litres of smuggled spirit had been seized and 74 cases registered.

As for rehabilitation of unemployed arrack workers, the Minister said orders deploying them in toddy shops had been issued.

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