Kerala lacks infrastructure development and investments: Chandy

Kerala lacks infrastructure development and investments, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy told reporters here Wednesday after the weekly cabinet meeting.

He added that while he was happy with most of his government's decision especially the main objective of 'development and care', he was unhappy at the lack of infrastructure development and investments in the state.

"The decision on 45 metres wide two national highways was taken with the knowledge that around Rs. 13,000 crores will be needed to acquire the 3,875 acres of land. But we decided that this has to be done for our state to go forward," said Chandy.

He said the most prohibitive factor for developmental projects in Kerala is the land cost.

"A bridge that cost Rs. 10 crores can be built after acquiring land worth almost Rs. 40 crores. Without infrastructure no developments will take place and again we loose out because investments are always linked to infrastructure. And when we decided to take a call, we decided at any cost, Kerala's infrastructure has to improve and we are committed on that," added Chandy.

He said another impediment in the progress is the environmental issues, especially when it comes to wetlands.

"The government is very clear that environment should be protected and at the same time there should be progress. We are determined that we will go forward fighting all odds," said Chandy.