UAE cabinet affairs minister Mohamed al-Gergawi will today open the first phase of SmartCity Kochi (SCK).
This is the second offshore knowledge business hub of Tecom Investments under Dubai Holding, also chaired by al-Gergawi, after SmartCity Malta and Dubai’s second significant investment in the port city of Kerala after DP World’s international transshipment terminal.
SmartCity managing director Dr Baju George said the second phase of creating 4.7mn square feet built-up space for knowledge-based industries, including global education major Gems Education’s international school, would also be launched.
“The second phase will be ready within three years and work on the third phase will begin next year, building 14mn square feet space by 2020,” he said.
“It will create 120,000 jobs in this special economic zone.”
In the first phase, the SCK, in which the state government also holds 16% stake, has created 650,000 sq ft space, all leased out to 27 firms, details of which will be unveiled at the launch ceremony.
Five individual investors are building separate campuses, including a 35-storey building by the LuLu Group of NRI tycoon Yusuffali MA, in the second phase, generating 60,000 high-quality jobs. The twin-tower of Sands Infra of LuLu group on 12.74 acres will provide 22,000 jobs. Bengaluru-based Maratt Projects has taken 3.60 acres for a seven-storyed building, generating 5,000 jobs and the Holiday Group would build 1.05mn sq ft on 5.5 acres, creating 12,000 jobs.
The function will be attended by Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty and Dubai Holding vice-chairman and managing director Ahmad bin Byat, besides prominent investors Yusuffali and Sunny Varkey.
“This will be a significant turning point for the state, which should now attract high-end activities,” George said. “It will leave a positive message to the world that Kerala is open for businesses and investments.”
The business hub is planned as sub-clusters for different areas like information technology, media, finance, research and innovation. It also includes hotels and leisure centres.
The authorities are also planning a mobility hub unifying bus, boat and train services linked to the Kochi Metro for the SCK on the banks of Kadamprayar River.
The SCK also proposes to introduce a digital shopping mall in the first phase itself, with a screen resembling a computer monitor displaying various items like provisions and consumer goods.
Buyers simply have to touch an item which will immediately go into the cart and their basket will be delivered before they leave after work. The Kochi Metro is also planning a similar facility for commuters.
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