Kerala Clears Path for Infopark Phase III: 300-Acre Land Pooling Gets Green Light

Kochi’s tech ambitions are set for a major boost as the Kerala government has directed the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) to initiate land pooling of 300 acres in Kizhakkambalam for the Phase III expansion of Infopark. With approvals secured from the Chief Minister’s Office and Kizhakkambalam panchayat, GCDA Chairman Chandran Pillai confirmed that groundwork can now begin.

“This is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state. We’re examining models like Amaravati before rolling out the process,” said Pillai. The upcoming IT township is seen as a crucial move to accommodate the rising demand for office space from tech companies, he added.

Infopark, which started in 2004 with just four firms on 100 acres, now hosts 583 companies. Over the last decade, under the Pinarayi Vijayan government, 352 new firms joined Phases I and II, generating over 73,500 jobs. IBM Software’s Ecosystem Incubation Centre (EIC) alone now employs over 35,000 professionals, up from just 100 three years ago.

SmartCity Kochi also expanded in June with the launch of Lulu Twin Towers — a 12.74-acre IT facility capable of housing 30,000 employees.

“Kochi is fast emerging as a top IT hub with low rents, excellent infrastructure, and the country’s lowest attrition rates,” said Abhilash Valiyavalappil, Director and CEO of Lulu IT Parks.

Meanwhile, Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) has proposed a new IT and ITeS park within its premises. Spread over 20 acres, it aims to shift the current 50:50 aero-to-non-aero revenue ratio to 40:60. A feasibility study is underway, with a master plan expected in three months.

What is Land Pooling?
Land pooling is a collaborative urban development method where landowners contribute land for redevelopment and receive a share of the developed plots or compensation. It offers higher land value post-development and avoids forced acquisition.