Work on the proposed Vizhinjam international transhipment container terminal would start during the course of this year itself, according to the Minister for Ports, Mr M. Vijayakumar.

Replying to questions in the State Assembly on Monday, the Minister said that an investor's meet would be held next month to discuss implementation of the project.

FUNDS SET APART

The State Government is confident of identifying an investor by November-December, following which the construction of the port would formally start. The Government has committed to develop the basic infrastructure, which includes rail and road connectivity to the port site, and has set aside Rs 450 crore for the purpose. Related work would be undertaken by a separate company, the Vizhinjam International Sea Port Ltd (VISL).

IT LABOUR BILL

The Government has proposed to frame a Bill to protect employment rights and improve service conditions of those working in the IT sector, according to the Labour Minister, Mr P.K. Gurusdasan.

In a written reply submitted to the House, he said that a ‘Kerala IT Employees (placement, regulation of employment, condition of service and welfare) Bill, 2009,' has been envisaged in this regard. In reply to another question, the Minister said that the State Government was not aware of those working in the special economic zones contracting mental illness. In reply to another question, he said that no amendments have been proposed to be made to the norms for issue of bar licences. Thirty-nine licences were issued in 2009-10.

BUS TERMINALS

The Transport Minister, Mr Jose Thettayil, said that the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) would take up work on 30 bus terminals and shopping complexes at various places in the first phase, and 29 in the second, as part of an expansion and diversification drive. The State Government had an open mind in engaging public sector undertakings for executing the work of the bus terminals being constructed on a BOT basis. The public utility held 408 acres of land under ownership, but most of it had no title-deeds. Steps have been taken to secure the title-deeds, the Minister said.