Soon, a smooth ride at Sipcot

At any of the government-promoted industrial complexes in and around the city, the civic infrastructure has always been found wanting.

That image is set to change for the Sipcot Industrial Complex in Gummidipoondi, where the civic infrastructure facilities have been revamped.

The complex, spread over 1,100 acres, houses several big companies including SRF, Mitsuba, Mando, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hi-Tech Carbon.

The association of this industrial estate has shared half the project cost. G.M. Krishnamurthy, president, Sipcot Industrial Complex Manufacturers’ Association, Gummidipoondi, said the civic infrastructure, comprising the roads and stormwater drain networks covering 14 km, had been renovated with a one-time grant of Rs. 10 crore from the State government, with the industrialists pitching in an equal amount.

The members of the manufacturers’ association carried out a quality check of the roads being developed by engaging a consultant to inspect the work.

Mr. Krishnamurthy pointed out that the engineers of the Highways Research Station had conducted a study of the road condition, traffic movements and the soil type and advised on the specifications for the road works to ensure the new roads last longer.

The roads encompass ducts at various points for utility cables to be carried to the companies without any road cuts. The issue of street lighting, which has been a sore point in the industrial complex, has also been addressed.