Firms dealing with engineering, wood, plastics, rubber, glass, food processing and cartons are operating in the estate. Kochi: Change is sweeping across Angamaly. The place is witnessing vigorous industrial activity, especially in the Chambannur area.
The Chambannur industrial estate is spread across 243 acres, from where around 110 medium and small-scale industries operate. Despite several shortcomings, these units are functioning smoothly. No labor disputes have been reported so far. Firms dealing with engineering, wood, plastics, rubber, glass, food processing and cartons are operating in the estate. Twelve units are engaged in export-oriented production. “There is whole-hearted cooperation between the units here, which goes a long way in ensuring growth,” said owner of Surya Metals and joint secretary of Kerala State Small Industries Association V M Binu.
The industrial area enjoys a number of advantages which could further accelerate growth. They include proximity to Cochin International Airport and Angamaly railway station. “Around 90 per cent of the units here are running on profit. A mere four units have been shut down owing to financial problems,” said Angamaly Industrial Estate Association secretary P K Somanathan.
The total turnover of all the industrial units here was Rs 2,000 crore last year, registering a remarkable growth rate of 30 per cent.
The main hurdle faced by the units is scarcity of land, which hampers expansion as well as diversification. At present, each unit is in possession of 10-20 cents of land, which is hardly sufficient to carry out further development, say the entrepreneurs based in Chambannur.
Another obstacle to diversification is the rule which prevents changing the product profile. The units are seeking government intervention in this regard. The industries here also say that the public sector units in the state are showing no interest in purchasing their products.
Substation needed
A major issue faced by the units is power disruption, which occurs two to three times a day. This causes considerable loss to industries heavily dependent on electricity. The need for a substation is acutely felt. KSEB has sufficient land in the area for the purpose, but no action has been taken. The plan to lay underground power cables is also in limbo.
Poor roads
Another problem is access to the national highway. A narrow and winding road connects the industrial area with the national highway. Road blocks and accidents are frequent along this stretch. During a fire in a unit, the Fire and Rescue Services vehicles had great difficulty in reaching the spot.
Waste management issues
Though there are several units which let out effluents, lack of facilities to manage the waste often leads to disputes. On some occasions, this invites public protests also. Industrialists are demanding a common waste processing plant to address the issue.
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