The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) held a high-level meeting to assess progress on major infrastructure projects in the southern States of Karnataka, Kerala, and Telangana. The meeting, chaired by DPIIT Secretary Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, aimed to accelerate issue resolution and improve coordination among stakeholders.
Focus on Timely Project Implementation
The review covered projects valued at over INR 10,000 crore. In Karnataka, five major projects worth INR 3,658 crore were examined. Kerala had two projects under review, totalling INR 5,002 crore. Telangana’s review involved three projects with a combined cost of INR 1,934 crore.
Officials from Central Ministries, State Governments, and private project promoters attended the session. The Project Monitoring Group (PMG) facilitated discussions, helping address long-standing challenges that often delay implementation.
Spotlight on the Trivandrum–Kanyakumari Railway Line
One of the most significant projects discussed was the doubling of the Trivandrum–Kanyakumari railway line. The project spans Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with an estimated cost of INR 3,785 crore. Its goal is to enhance regional connectivity by adding a second track to the existing line.
The upgraded railway is expected to reduce travel time, boost train frequency, and improve both passenger and freight transport. Additionally, it is likely to ease road traffic and stimulate tourism and local economies. However, the project has faced delays due to land acquisition issues, environmental clearance hurdles, and local opposition. Authorities were urged to resolve these problems swiftly.
Digital Expansion with 5G and 4G in Remote Areas
The Reliance Jio initiative to expand 5G and 4G networks was also reviewed. Discussions with the Telangana Government focused on fast-tracking pending forest and wildlife clearances. The project aims to improve mobile connectivity in underserved and remote parts of India, including strategic and hard-to-reach areas.
This digital infrastructure expansion supports the Government’s vision of a digitally empowered India. Once implemented, it will strengthen existing networks and extend new coverage, enhancing access to digital services across the country.
DPIIT Encourages Proactive Collaboration
Shri Bhatia reiterated the Government’s dedication to fast-tracking project execution through better institutional support. He urged project stakeholders to take advantage of the PMG’s platform to resolve issues promptly. The collaboration between Central and State Governments, along with private sector partners, remains crucial for delivering these large-scale initiatives on time.
