Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has sought Japanese help to expand the State’s rail infrastructure.
Interacting with Japanese Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu here on Wednesday, Mr. Vijayan said Kerala urgently required a fast railway corridor connecting Kasaragod and Thiruvananthapuram.
The State was poised to add multiple tracks to the double line that links the two destinations. It has partnered with Indian Railways for the purpose.
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The Chief Minister drew the ambassador’s attention to the need for a rapid mass transport system that would help the State mitigate traffic congestion on its narrow roads.
The ambassador revealed an interest in partnering with the State to develop its rail network.
Mr Vijayan sought Japanese know-how to set up seven industrial-scale garbage treatment plants across the State. The Haritha Kerala Mission is a partner in the ambitious programme.
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The envoy also showed interest in aiding Kerala set up a world-class manufacturing institute. The proposed facility will study critical issues facing the production sector and employ its research findings to identify and apply intelligent solutions. Private businesses, public sector units, and the government are the projected beneficiaries of the scheme.
The CM said Japanese technology could be harnessed to make internet affordable and accessible to the common man.
The Japanese envoy also expressed interest in helping Kerala set up rubber-based industries. Mr. Vijayan told the ambassador that Kerala accounted for 90% of the rubber production in India. The CM also offered Japan an enclave near the Vizhinjam port to manufacture value-added products.
The CM said Kerala could export the best quality tea to Japan. Tea drinking is part of Japan's ancient culture and tradition. Japan was also a potential market for spices from Kerala.
Envoy calls on Governor
Earlier, Mr. Hiramatsu called on Governor P. Sathasivam at his official residence in Raj Bhavan on Wednesday.