The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) on Wednesday proposed a slew of development programmes in its budget for 2019-20.
The highlights of the budget proposals are development of a model Kochi Economic City, townships away from the central city, and Marine Drive Entertainment Hub. The budget estimates a revenue of ₹157.12 crore and expense of ₹114.39 crore with a surplus of ₹42.72 crore.
Presented by GCDA Chairman V. Salim, the budget proposes to promote an economic corridor of Aluva-Angamaly-Perumbavoor that can grow with its proximity to many developmental infrastructure such as the national highway, airport, container terminal and Kochi metro. The viability study for the project has been provided ₹1 crore. A PPP model development of the Marine Drive Entertainment Hub is being taken up as a major tourism project. It would help prop up Kochi's shores for the international tourist standards, with wide walkways, clearing encroachments, providing world-class facilities and beautification.
The Authority also plans to take up green energy solutions by equipping its buildings to tap solar energy. This will be taken up under the Smart City Mission through PPP model. A tourism village project in Palluruthy has been provided ₹1 crore.It includes conserving the mangroves in the area and developing the area to showcase the State's heritage and tradition. Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium renovation, providing open gymnasium at the stadium, renovation of Marine Drive commercial complex, and residential complex at Kinco Jetty are among the other projects.