PPP model to be key for Vision 2030

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posted on 12 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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The report to be submitted by the GCDA to the CM lays emphasis on public-private partnership

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) will submit the report, compiled on the basis of the ideas put forth in the Vision 2030 Seminar, to the Chief Minister this week. It is learnt that the report will primarily focus on two major requirements, including the formation of a Metropolitan Authority for the Kochi agglomeration area, appointment of an agency to study the possibility and feasibility of a Suburban Rail Service for the City.

“We will also put forth the idea of getting the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission Fund, for executing the development projects proposed by GCDA before the Chief Minister,” GCDA chairman N Venugopal said.

The report points out that waste disposal is a major problem faced by the City. “Kochi should adopt international technologies in order to tackle the garbage menace. Several parties are ready to invest in Kochi and therefore, public-private-partnerships (PPP) should be encouraged. Turn Kochi into an investment hub and make it a win-win situation for land acquisition and rehabilitation,” the report says.

The report further points out that there are many areas where the PPP model works better than direct government procurement. “Kochi can structure projects in health, education, government services, housing ,water supply, power transport and other sectors, which can attract private investments. The Swiss Challenge method (a new bidding process which helps private sector initiative in core sector projects), should be encouraged so that newer and better ideas are brought up by entrepreneurs.

While those who are accustomed to traditional government procurement may not either see or prefer a private sector option, the private sector can suggest new projects and programmes if Swiss challenge is made regular feature of PPP,” says the report.

Another suggestion from the experts is the need for planning projects for small-scale and medium-scale industries in Kochi, which can tap the potential of the proximity of the Vallarpadom ICTT. “Bunkering terminal, ship repair facility, logistics park are some projects for the Free Trade Warehousing Zone. The development of ICTT has already seen immediate investments in the container freight stations, warehousing, Inland Container Deports and the trailer sector. Properly channelised projects, aimed at the industrial sector are also vital to tap these developments,” the report added.