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GCDA plans convention centre in Kochi

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has started pushing the plans for constructing an exhibition-cum-convention centre in Kochi. According to officials, the proposed project at its land in Manappatti Parambu in Kaloor through public-private partnership (PPP) model. The project is awaiting approval from the state government and the tender to conduct a feasibility study is likely to be invited once the model code of conduct is removed.

GCDA chairman V Saleem said that the project, which is GCDA’s first-of-its-kind, was aimed at providing a the convention centre at affordable rates for people who want to conduct social functions including marriage. It would also be used as an exhibition centre and GCDA plans to construct the building in such a way that it serves both these purpose, he said.

“It is one of the main projects of GCDA and we plan to implement it at Manappatti Parambu where GCDA has around four acres. A team will be assigned to conduct a study of its feasibility, merits and economic viability. For this, a tender will be initiated once the election results are out. The report will be submitted to the government for its approval,” he added.

Meanwhile, officials at GCDA said that the project was in its conceptualization stage only and the authority was yet to take a final decision to go with the project. Referring to other projects of GCDA like Mundamveli fish farm and laser show at Subhash Park, they also raised a concern about leaving the convention centre project midway incurring huge loss to the authority.

“The project has always been in the pipeline and there are several practical issues like suitability of land, funds and finding a private partner. The land at Manappati Parambu is not in a single plot and it will lead to space constraints. Moreover, the executive committee and general council are yet to finalize on how the project will be beneficial for people of different strata. Also, the increasing number of private halls in the city will be a challenge. Without proper planning it will be a waste of money,” the official said.