Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple infrastructure and energy projects worth around ₹11,000 crore in Kochi, aimed at boosting industrial growth, connectivity and employment in Kerala.
Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister said the initiatives would accelerate development across sectors in the state. “I extend my heartiest congratulations to the people of Keralam for these projects,” he said.
A key highlight of the visit was the foundation stone for a new polypropylene unit at the Kochi Refinery. The facility is designed to produce around 400,000 tonnes of polypropylene annually and is expected to strengthen the petroleum and petrochemical sector while supporting downstream industries such as packaging, textiles and medical devices.
Highlighting the significance of the project, Modi said expanding the petroleum sector is vital for strengthening the Make in India initiative and building a self-reliant economy.
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 50-MW floating solar power project at West Kallada to expand renewable energy capacity in the state. He noted that Kerala’s extensive network of water bodies provides strong potential for floating solar installations.
Railway infrastructure development formed another major component of the announcement. Modernisation works will be undertaken at Shoranur Junction railway station, Kuttipuram railway station and Changanassery railway station under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. In addition, a new train service between Palakkad and Pollachi is expected to improve connectivity between Kerala and neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
On road infrastructure, Modi highlighted the six-lane Kozhikode Bypass project and improved connectivity to Azhikkal Port, projects aimed at reducing congestion and travel time while enhancing logistics connectivity.
Referring to India’s broader infrastructure push, the Prime Minister said, “Today, the world praises India for the investment being made in modern infrastructure.”
He added that the projects would benefit farmers, boost tourism and support industrial growth across the state.