The Hindu Business Line : Talks on Smart City `positive'

The talks between representatives of Dubai Internet City (DIC) and Kerala Government officials here on Friday on the Smart City project in Kochi, proposed by the former, were positive, according to sources.

It was a free exchange of the respective positions. The Government, on its part, stuck to its stated position that there would not be any compromise on Infopark and the exclusivity clause.

GOVT STAND

It was made clear that the State Government would retain the Infopark and would go all out to develop it. At the same time, DIC could bring as many companies as possible and help develop the IT and ITES (IT-enabled services) sectors in the State.

The DIC representatives were told that the Government would extend all assistance to it in this respect.

DIC could develop the proposed venture as a private park and the Government would provide facilities such as road connectivity, power and water as it does for other IT companies and IT parks in the State.

The Government side noted that the mandate for growth of IT sector in the State could not be given to anyone exclusively. A healthy competition was necessary to ensure the sector's growth.

Out of 136 acres readily available at Kakkanad in Kochi, DIC will be given 114 acres and Infopark will retain 22 acres. Smart City will have the first right of refusal on this 22 acres if Infopark decides to hand over the land to a private developer.

The discussions were encouraging with both sides expressing their views frankly. The DIC team will meet the Chief Minister, Mr V.S. Achuthanandan, on Saturday.

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