UDF sweep raises hopes for fast-tracking key infrastructure projects in Thiruvananthapuram

T'puram: With the United Democratic Front (UDF) securing a decisive victory in the assembly elections, the capital is expecting the new govt to speedily implement long-pending infrastructure projects seen as critical to the region's growth. Experts and industry stakeholders hope the next five years could define the city's transformation into a major economic and logistics hub.Among the projects awaiting momentum are the proposed Outer Area Growth Corridor, Thiruvananthapuram Metro, Outer Ring Road and Thiruvananthapuram airport expansion. The development of Vizhinjam international seaport, India's first transhipment port, is also expected to gain fresh impetus, alongside national highway widening and the next phase of the Karamana-Kaliyikkavila road corridor.Vizhinjam port project, being implemented by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone, is already operational and the subsequent phases are under construction.Infrastructure expert Anil Kumar Pandala cited delay in land acquisition has hit airport development."Priority should be given to completing land acquisition for airport expansion and the Outer Area Growth Corridor. These are foundational projects that will unlock further development," he said."Another important requirement is to form a separate department for capital region development. The new chief minister should oversee that department directly. There should not be any further delay in implementing these projects. Then only, the capital will see a development boom in the next five years," Pandala said.Parallelly, the long-discussed Technopark Phase IV expansion, Life Science Park and the proposed Space Park are seen as crucial to strengthening the city's knowledge economy. These projects aim to position Thiruvananthapuram as a hub for IT, biotechnology and space technology, complementing the presence of institutions like ISRO facilities in the region.Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) president S N Reghuchandran Nair called for structural reforms to ensure efficient project execution. He proposed appointing a dedicated "guardian minister" for capital region development with full administrative authority. "There should also be a Greater Trivandrum Development Authority, on the lines of Greater Cochin Development Authority, but as a separate entity led by the chief secretary," he said.Nair also pointed out that the victory of two BJP leaders, Rajeev Chandrasekhar and V Muraleedharan, with both boasting prior experience as Union ministers, could benefit the state. "Their expertise and connections at the national level can help accelerate projects like Technopark expansion, Life Science Park and defence-related initiatives," he noted.Tourism development is another key area, with plans to enhance Kovalam, Varkala and heritage circuits in the capital district. Improved connectivity using highways and potential metro rail is expected to further boost tourist inflow.TCCI is preparing to submit a detailed memorandum to the new chief minister, urging time-bound execution of all major projects. It has also recommended allocating the ports portfolio to C P John, citing his administrative capabilities.With multiple high-impact projects in various stages, from proposal to partial execution, stakeholders agree that decisive governance and coordinated planning will be crucial. If implemented without delay, these initiatives could trigger a sustained development boom, firmly establishing Thiruvananthapuram as a leading urban and economic centre in southern India.