Proposed Thoothukudi expressway would boost growth: Stakeholders

Hailing the move initiated by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), T Johnson, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Thoothukudi, said the project would spur further developments in the port sector, besides opening new avenues for industrial growth in Thoothukudi.

Speaking to DT Next, Johnson said the road would help reduce commuting distance by at least 100 km, thereby bringing down the cost of cargo transportation. Anticipating further advantages due to the project, he said import and export logistic supply chain would be made more effective to ensure timely delivery of cargo.

“The Antwerp Port in Belgium guarantees a quick turnaround of cargo to the end customer. If a world-class road infrastructure is in place, Thoothukudi Port could also raise to the standards of Antwerp Port,” Johnson said.

“If the expressway project is implemented, the Thoothukudi – Madurai industrial corridor could even be extended up to Chennai,” said J P Joe Villavarayar, President, Tuticorin Ship Agents’ Association.

According to T Velsankar, President, Tuticorin Stevedores Association, the expressway, which might be built on a public-private partnership mode, would attract further industrial investments in and around Thoothukudi.

He added that the upcoming international seaport at Vizhinjam in the neighbouring Kerala could also enjoy the benefits. “Thoothukudi should attract investments in automobile manufacturing sector, which is yet to be witnessed. Other projects such as Thoothukudi- Madurai industrial corridor, special economic zone in Nanguneri and food processing industry in Chekarakudi would receive a boost,” Velsankar said.

R Edwin Samuel, Vice-President, ICCI, said the acquisition of land for establishing the project should not be a problem. “With the expansion of airport and deepening of the channel at the port, Thoothukudi is bound to enjoy the fruits of development. The proposed highway would be an added advantage,” he said.

David, Senior Vice-President, St John Freight System Limited, Thoothukudi, said, “With industrialisation in Chennai almost reaching a saturation point, Thoothukudi would be the next preferred destination for investments. More importantly, the new highway would also give a fillip to the tourism sector here.”