Kollam industries to look up soon

With a number of promising projects in the pipeline, the industrial sector in the district is all set for a major upswing.

Kerala Minerals and Metals Limited (KMML), one of the main Public Sector Undertakings (PSU) in Kollam, is gearing to raise its titanium dioxide production by 50%, from 40,000 tonnes to 60,000 tonnes.

The State government would invest ₹1,000 crore to reach this capacity within two years, said Industries Minister A.C. Moideen here on Monday.

After laying the foundation stone of the new oxygen plant in KMML, he said a mineral-based industries park would be set up soon to convert the black sand across the Kollam-Alappuzha coast into value-added products.

Investment

“The project needs an investment of ₹3,000 crore. Proceedings to acquire 180 acres of land for the public-private partnership project are currently progressing. The government considers the priceless mineral wealth of the State integral in expanding industry and employment,” he said.

The Minister also ensured that the issues of the Land Acquired Persons Association (LAPA) employees in the KMML would be solved through discussions.

Two other PSUs in the district, Kundara Ceramics and Kerala Electrical & Allied Engineering Co.Ltd (KEL), will also undergo some major renovation soon.

To be revived

While the derelict plant at Kundara Ceramics will be revived shortly, the government has given nod to buy 4.46 acres of land for mining raw material.

A sum of ₹20 crore has been set aside for the purpose along with an extra 3 crore for the construction of an LNG plant.

Turnover

This financial year, the turnover of Ceramics was ₹4.25 crore with a 73% increase in marketing. The KEL has currently hit the highest turnover in its history — ₹33.30 crore.

Commenting on this, the Minister said 14 PSUs in the State could generate a profit of ₹106 crore in 2017.

“When the LDF government came to power, these PSUs reported a loss of ₹131 crore. The government regenerated the sector by offering support through various schemes. While the Centre is trying to destroy the public sector, Kerala is setting a new model by protecting the PSUs,” the Minister said.