The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is set to begin demarcating boundaries for a 300-acre land pooling project for the Phase III campus of Infopark. Following a recent workshop, GCDA plans to form a dedicated team of revenue officials to facilitate the land acquisition process, which will include consultations with landowners unfamiliar with land pooling. The new campus aims to promote carbon neutrality, water self-sufficiency, and comprehensive waste management, while also providing enhanced connectivity and diverse facilities. Infopark, which has grown significantly since its establishment in 2004, continues to expand its footprint in the region.
The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is preparing to demarcate boundaries for a 300-acre land pooling project aimed at establishing the Phase III campus of Infopark. Following a workshop on land pooling held for officials, the authority has decided to form a dedicated team of revenue officials to start the land acquisition process soon.
Recently, the government appointed GCDA to manage the pooling of land designated for the new campus in Kizhakkambalam. The demarcation process will not begin until the authority has consulted with landowners, as many may be unfamiliar with land pooling procedures.
GCDA will provide landowners with a six-month period to complete the necessary steps before finalizing the demarcation of the area to be acquired.
Infopark CEO Susanth Kurunthil highlighted that Phase III will comprise six essential elements: carbon neutrality, self-sufficiency in water resources, comprehensive waste management, enhanced transportation connectivity to Kochi city, national highways, railway systems, and the airport, as well as a diverse IT park inclusive of all social groups. The new development aims to accommodate not only IT companies but also residential units, commercial spaces, sports and cultural facilities, and hospitals.
Infopark has come a long way since its inception 20 years ago. Originally established in 2004 with 100 acres and just four companies, it has expanded to 323 acres, housing over 582 companies and employing around 70,000 professionals within 9.2 million square feet of built-up area by 2024. In 2004, the state government transferred 100 acres of land from KINFRA in Kakkanad to Infopark Kerala to set up the IT Park, which began operations by renovating the existing Standard Design Factory (SDF) building. The expansion into an additional 300 acres in Phase III is expected to further enhance Infopark's growth trajectory.
In addition to its Phase I and II campuses in suburban Kakkanad, Infopark operates satellite centers in Koratty (Thrissur) and Cherthala (Alappuzha). Infopark Cherthala was established in 2011 and is part of the IT corridor. It features one SEZ building, Chaithanya, and currently houses 22 companies and over 250 employees, offering both plug-and-play and bare-shell office spaces.
Infopark Thrissur, established in 2009 near NH 544 in Koratty, includes nine non-SEZ villas and one IT complex known as 'Indeevaram,' classified as an SEZ building. This campus accommodates 55 companies and more than 2,900 employees, with both plug-and-play and bare-shell office options available.
In conclusion, the upcoming Phase III development of Infopark represents a significant step forward for the Greater Cochin Development Authority and the region's IT landscape. By focusing on sustainable practices and inclusive growth, this project aims to create a vibrant ecosystem that not only supports IT companies but also enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors. As GCDA engages with landowners and finalizes the necessary procedures, the successful implementation of this initiative could solidify Infopark's position as a leading hub for technology and innovation in Kerala.