Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth around ₹11,000 crore in Kochi, aimed at strengthening infrastructure, boosting tourism and accelerating industrial growth in Kerala.
Addressing a public gathering in the Ernakulam district, the Prime Minister said the projects would enhance connectivity, promote clean energy and create employment opportunities while contributing to the vision of a developed state.
“Coming to Kochi is always a magnificent experience. I congratulate the people of Kerala for these projects that will accelerate the state’s development,” PM Modi said.
Focus on petroleum and manufacturing sector
A key highlight of the event was the foundation stone for a polypropylene unit at the Kochi Refinery, which is expected to produce about four lakh tonnes annually. The facility will support sectors such as packaging, textiles, automobiles and medical devices.
PM Modi said strengthening the petroleum sector is essential for advancing the government’s initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Push for renewable energy
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 50-megawatt floating solar power project at West Kallada, highlighting Kerala’s potential in solar energy due to its large number of water bodies.
He noted that as India expands in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors, the demand for clean and sustainable energy will continue to rise. “It is our endeavour that Kerala moves further ahead in solar power generation,” PM Modi said.
Rail and road connectivity projects
Several railway infrastructure upgrades were also announced under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including the modernisation of Shoranur Junction railway station, Kuttippuram railway station, and Changanassery railway station.
The electrification of a major section of the Shoranur-Nilambur railway line was also completed. Additionally, a new Palakkad-Pollachi train service was launched to improve connectivity between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
On road infrastructure, the Prime Minister highlighted projects such as improved connectivity to Azhikkal Port and the six-lane Kozhikode Bypass, which are expected to reduce travel time and ease traffic congestion.
Infrastructure investment to create jobs
PM Modi said the global community is recognising India’s growing investment in modern infrastructure and noted that the latest Union Budget has allocated record funds for infrastructure development.
He added that Kerala is benefiting significantly from these investments, which are expected to support farmers, strengthen tourism and expand industrial activity.
“Every rupee invested in infrastructure generates employment and opportunities for youth,” the Prime Minister said, expressing confidence that the projects would contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and a “Viksit Kerala.”
