Mon Dec 08 14:48:12 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
Karaikal Industrial Hub Struggles to Thrive Due to Poor Infrastructure
Karaikal, December 8, 2025 – The Industrial Growth Centre in TR Pattinam, Karaikal, promoted by PIPDIC (Puducherry Industrial Promotion Development and Investment Corporation), is facing significant challenges due to inadequate infrastructure, hindering its potential as a thriving industrial hub.
Despite acquiring approximately 600 acres of agricultural land for industrial development, the center has seen a limited number of functioning units. Local leaders and entrepreneurs cite persistent problems with water supply, sanitation, street lighting, road quality, and reliable power as major deterrents to investment. Concerns also exist regarding wastewater management and the lack of a dedicated industrial feeder line for power.
MLA M. Nagathiyagarajan calls the estate “virtually stagnant” and criticizes the absence of a streamlined single-window clearance system, discouraging genuine investors. Former Minister R. Kamalakannan laments “wasted chances” over the past three decades, attributing the lack of progress to political delays and the absence of corruption-free governance.
Sources within the industrial community echo these sentiments, emphasizing the need for better road access, especially for trucks during the monsoon season. S.P. Selva Shanmugam, President of the Karaikal Poratta Kuzhu, expressed concerns about land speculation and the future use of the acquired land due to prolonged inactivity.
While a senior PIPDIC official stated that discussions are underway to improve conditions for industrial growth at the Polagam estate, the lack of basic infrastructure and the need for a more efficient regulatory system remain critical challenges that must be addressed to unlock Karaikal’s industrial potential.
First Piper 