GIVEN its advantages on many fronts, its road, rail and sea connectivity and proximity to the Tamil Nadu capital, Chennai, and the development of the most modern multipurpose port at Krishnapatnam, Nellore is on the verge of another industrial revolution, say District Collector K. Ramgopal and his predecessor M. Ravi Chandra. With proactive investment policies and an industry-friendly government, investments in industry have increased significantly in the district.
It still has unlimited business opportunities waiting to be tapped by prospective investors. The inherent potential, conducive industrial climate and geographical advantages augur well for the district to build a partnership of trust with investors, claims K. Ramgopal. With the entry of engineering majors such as the United Kingdom-based Caparo group, there is good scope for ancillary units in the district. The potential areas for investments are light engineering, including automobile components, leather products and footwear, textiles, including garments, agroprocessing, and so on. Echoing similar views, Ravi Chandra said that over the past few years, industrial activity in the district had witnessed a massive growth.
The Industrial Investment Policy, which aims at promoting sustainable industrialisation through proper utilisation of human resource and maximising employment, has been formulated keeping in mind a number of objectives and thrust areas. It also aims to improve the standard of living and quality of life of the local people and conserve the environment.
Ramgopal said exports were expected to rise once the first phase of the Krishnapatnam port development project was completed.
Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited (KPCL) commissioned berth operations at the port recently. The first phase of the state-of-the-art mechanised port will be completed by June. Four berths will be ready in June. On completion of the other phases, the port, with a current cargo capacity of 35 million tonnes per annum, will have 12 km of quay equipped with a 19-metre draught.
Rail and road connectivity is also set to improve. The four-lane road connecting National Highway-5 and the dedicated railway line connecting the Krishnapatnam port to Venkatachalam station will be completed soon. According to Ravi Chandra, the district can focus on increasing its leather and textile exports in the coming years. In addition, an institutional framework is being provided to develop human resource in specialised trades.
K. Mrityunjaya RamCOMMents
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