Mumbai, Sept. 2 -- Tiruchirappalli MP Durai Vaiko said the Union government has asked the Tamil Nadu government to submit a draft plan for a proposed dry port at Tiruchirappalli and that the Centre has subsequently ordered its execution. He indicated the request followed exchanges between state and central authorities and that completion of documentary requirements is expected shortly. He indicated both governments are keen to progress the project and that formal steps will be taken to move from planning to implementation.
Vaiko contrasted the present state government's approach with that of the previous administration, saying Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has shown interest in implementing the scheme. He reported discussions at state and central levels had been constructive and that officials were aligning clearances and plans. He added that the documentation process would be completed in the near term and that the Centre would follow up to ensure timely execution of works once papers were in order.
He cited his meetings with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the matter, noting he had met her five times and that she had been positive about the proposal. He said the meetings had focused on project approvals, funding arrangements and coordination between ministries. He suggested that ministerial support had helped to expedite the preparatory stages and to maintain momentum for the project.
The MP stated the dry port is expected to create more than 12,500 direct jobs and indirect employment to lakhs of people; one lakh equals 0.1 million (mn). A dry port, as an inland intermodal terminal, typically eases cargo movement and reduces congestion at seaports, supporting regional trade and logistics. He expressed hope that local economic activity would receive a boost once construction and operations commence.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.