A special economic zone dedicated especially to the IT sector, SmartCity Kochi is all set to revolutionise infrastructure and economic development in the state. The implementation of this project involves a joining venture between Government of Kerala (16% holding) and Dubai Holding (84% holding). As an integrated business hub, SmartCity covers about 9 million sqft of built up space to cater to organisations from around the world falling under IT and allied sectors. SmartCity Kochi was inaugurated on 20 February 2016 and has been flourishing since at a rapid pace. In this article, we will discover the features, projects and real estate potential of SmartCity Kochi.
SmartCity Kochi: Features and objectives
| Industry | IT business park |
| Established | 20 February 2016 |
| Owners | Government of Kerala, Dubai Holding |
| CEO | Manoj Nair |
| Area covered | 99.6 acres |
| Area for IT and related services | 6.21 million sq ft |
| Website | http://www.smartcity-kochi.in/ |
The main objectives of SmartCity Kochi are:
- Setting up a modern and comprehensive water transportation system that connects Fort Kochi with central locations with the help of ferry services, improved road infrastructure for jetties and repairing and upgrading of existing jetties.
- To enhance the options for recreation and quality of life of the residents, the project aims to develop canal paths for both recreational and functional purposes, parks and plazas.
- A green and smart transportation system that prioritises pedestrians is also under way, emphasising on a more efficient last-mile connectivity focusing around auto rickshaws and two-wheelers.
- To create a more inclusive model of urban development, the project also focuses on the redevelopment of slums and the provision of basic amenities and improved infrastructure to these areas.
- The overall infrastructure of the region is set to witness a major boost with focus on energy efficiency, smart technological integration in managing utilities, wi-fi hotspots and much more.
SmartCity Kochi projects
Completed projects
Among the completed projects under SmartCity Kochi are:
- Emphasis on non-motorised transport and pedestrian-centred traffic management with the integration of e-public transport with ample charging stations, elevated walkways and travelators for convenience of pedestrians.
- Kochi Integrated Traffic Management System is promoting smart traffic management with the help of PTZ+ violation cameras, Red Light Violation Detection, Pelican Signals and Variable Message Signs that are operational at several locations and are being set up in the others.
- The Karuvelipady sump has been augmented to store 5 million gallons of water and the installation of a rider line is helping enhance the water transportation system.
Upcoming projects
The ongoing projects under SmartCity Kochi include a decentralised sewage treatment plant for Mudamveli. Alongside this, a solar rooftop project to enhance energy efficiency is also on the verge of completion. Social sector development, including setting up of Anganwadi schools and public sanitation facilities, are also being given immense importance under the project.
Online portal and citizen services
Under this project, an online portal has also been launched to provide easy access to essential services to the users and. The SmartCity Kochi portal provides the facility to make utility bill payments from the comfort of your home at the click of a button by submitting your login details. You can now pay your property tax, KSEB electricity bill, KWA water bill and even traffic violation penalties through this portal.
There are also offline mechanisms in place for the provision of government services such as obtaining birth and death certificate, marriage certificate, trade licence and other important documents and permits.
Reaching SmartCity Kochi
This IT park is located at a distance of approximately 12 km from downtown Kochi. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 22 km away. If travelling by train, Ernakulam Railway Station would be the most convenient, located at a distance of 7 km from Kochi city centre. Several buses ply from various locations in Kerala to SmartCity, ensuring smooth connectivity. You can also easily access SmartCity by personal vehicles or rented cabs.
Real estate impact
SmartCity Kochi is an attractive destination for residents and a lucrative one for investors due to various reasons. This one-of-a-kind business park dedicated especially for the IT sector is expected to result in a meteoric rise in employment opportunities, thereby also increasing the demand for housing and real estate among the professional workforce. The metro rail connectivity and a well-developed and thriving transportation system is an added advantage for the real estate market of the region.
In an attempt to facilitate commercial growth, the real estate market of the region boasts of reasonable property prices, creating greater scope for future appreciation. The location, coupled with a superior transportation network, ensures an optimal quality of life for the residents.
FAQs
What is SmartCity Kochi?
SmartCity Kochi is a special economic zone dedicated to the IT sector, established by the Government of Kerala and Dubai Holding.
Who owns SmartCity Kochi?
SmartCity Kochi is owned and operated jointly by the Government of Kerala, holding 16% ownership, and Dubai Holding with 84% ownership.
When was SmartCity Kochi established?
SmartCity Kochi was inaugurated on 20 February 2016. It has been under constant development since.
What are the key aims of SmartCity Kochi?
The key objectives of SmartCity Kochi include setting up a comprehensive water transportation system, developing recreational green zones for the residents, implementing a green and smart pedestrian-centred transportation system, redevelopment of slums and boosting energy efficiency.
What projects have been completed under SmartCity Kochi?
The development of the pedestrian-centric smart traffic management system and augmentation of the Karuvelipady sump for water storage have been completed.
What are some upcoming projects under SmartCity Kochi?
Decentralisation of sewage treatment, solar rooftop power project and the development of Anganwadi schools and public sanitation facilities are some of the upcoming projects.
How can I access essential services in SmartCity Kochi?
SmartCity Kochi’s online portal has eased the access to essential services like utility bill payments and payment of fines and penalties.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected] |
Riddhi Chatterji is currently pursuing a master’s degree in English literature from University of Delhi. Her meticulous attention to detail and the desire to make a learning experience out of every opportunity has allowed her to work with different forms of textual content for digital platforms, ranging from social media to news desks. When not working or studying , you can find her with her head buried in a book, discovering new music and movies, or out and about exploring the city on the metro.
