Date:26/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/26/stories/2007122654191700.htm

Business

Azhikkal SILK unit to make boats

Staff Reporter

KANNUR: Industries Minister Elamaram Karim has said that the Azhikkal unit of Steel Industries Ltd. Kerala (SILK) will be developed into a modern boat-making unit.

He was inaugurating the launch of two passenger boats built by SILK at its yard at Azhikkal here.

Mr. Karim said modern technology would be utilised to develop the unit into a major boat-making yard. The two boats would be handed over to the State Water Transport Department at Munambam.

He said the SILK unit at Azhikkal was trying to stand on its own feet. The government would extend its support for the revival of all public sector undertakings (PSUs).

He said all PSUs in the State were on the path of growth and the government would protect all workers.

Mr. Karim said discussions with Railway authorities to develop an autocast fabrication unit at Cherthala to make railway coaches were in their last stages.

A memorandum of understanding was expected to be signed soon, he said. M. Prakashan, MLA, presided.

Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan presided over the function. E. Narayanan, chairman of Rubco, was present.