The capital is witnessing hectic political parleys with the arrival of Chairman of Adani Group, Gautam S. Adani, on Monday for the signing of the concession agreement between the State and Adani Vizhinjam Ports Ltd of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ), the private multi-port operator, selected to build the superstructure and operate the Vizhinjam International Multipurpose deepwater seaport.
Mr. Adani accompanied by his son Karan G. Adani called on the Chief Minister, Oommen Chandy at the Secretariat here and held discussions with him on the road ahead to commence the works on November 1. Mr. Adani, who is reaching here for the first time after being awarded the work for the Rs. 7,525 crore project, is leading an eight-member delegation. The pact is to be inked at 5 p.m. in the Durbar Hall.
Minister for Finance, K. M. Mani, Minister for Ports, K. Babu, Minister for Health, V. S. Sivakumar, Adviser to the CM, L. Radhakrishnan, Principal Secretary, Ports, James Varghese and MD and CEO of VISL, A. S. Suresh Babu and CEO of AVPL, Santhosh Kumar Mahoptra were also present.
Funds not an issue, says CM
Later, the Chief Minister said the government will take steps to clear the apprehensions of all and will hold discussions with the fisherfolk on August 19 and later with the social groups. “Money will not be a problem for the project, Mr. Chandy and Mr. Mani said.
Meets Leader of Opposition
Later, Mr. Adani and his son called on the Leader of Opposition, V. S. Achuthanandan at his official residence and held talks. “It was a personal visit”, Mr. Adani told reporters after the meeting. The Opposition leader said he had informed the concerns about the project to Mr. Adani. “We are not against the project. But, will not cooperate”.
Meets BJP leaders
The Adani Group Chairman also called on the State BJP president, V. Muraleedharan and other leaders held discussions.
Source : The Hindu