The Cochin Port Trust is initiating a master plan for the development of real estate in the Willingdon Island, draft of which will be ready for discussion with stakeholders in about 15 weeks.

Based on the feedback, a final draft will be ready for implementation by end of 2012, the Port Trust's Chairman, Mr Paul Antony, said.

He was speaking at a session organised under the aegis of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The major recommendations are that the seafront areas in the northern side of the island will be reserved for ship-related activities, and the southern part will be devoted to business district development.

Allaying fears of downturn and reduced activity in Willingdon Island, he said efforts are on to keep the activities alive by opening more container freight stations, bonded warehouses, etc.

The Chairman reassured that the issues raised by stakeholders related to pricing and terminal charges will be taken up by the Port Trust.

Once the draft of 14.5 metres is achieved, the full potential of the international container transhipment terminal (ICTT) will be realised.

His priority would be to provide this draft to at least 350 metres at the ICTT quay for the mother ships to start operations.

Earlier, Mr Prakash James, Vice-President of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, welcomed the gathering.

Former presidents, Mr Abraham Philip and Mr Balagopala Pai, and the Chief Operating Officer, Mr Ramakrishnan, also spoke.

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