Let us take giant leaps and not small steps

Montek Singh Ahluwalliah has come, let us go in for a leap in infrastructure works
Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalliah has come and discussed various issues with Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Cabinet colleagues and also members of the state planning board.

What usually happens, hitherto, is to increase the outlay for various ongoing projects by 10 per cent. In unusual instances, there would be 20 per cent increase, if there is constant pressure.

But this is not infrastructure development, which actually requires a giant stride. In other States which are concerned with developments, it is the case that huge fly-over projects stretching to kilometers of length is being completed within months. Which speaks volumes for the fact that if there is a will, projects can be completed. Then one should not create hurdles in the way of proceeding with the work simply for getting commission or other benefits.

Already the Smart City project has lagged behind, after it was cleared. The Opposition has charged that the foreign players were not much interested in the project. Steps should be taken to expedite the work.

The all-state high-speed rail corridor, Kochi Metro and the like should not be embroiled in usual bureaucratic and political bungling. Whatever is the quick way in a transparent manner should be pressed into service.

In fact, Kerala does not have much of a high-calibre development achievement. That does not mean that we should never attempt such mega schemes.
Let us take giant leaps and not small steps.