The city of Thiruvananthapuram is poised to take a giant leap in its technological ambitions, with the construction of the much-awaited Digital Science Park scheduled to commence in February. This marks a pivotal step in the state's strategy to evolve into a premier destination for advanced technology and innovation.
Project Details and Tender Finalization
The tender for this high-profile project, valued at approximately Rs 202 crore, is expected to be finalized in January. Three prominent construction firms have submitted bids for the work: Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS), Cherian Varkey Construction Co Pvt Ltd, and Jatan Constructions Pvt Ltd. The technical evaluation by the consultant has been completed and forwarded to the implementing agency.
Located on a sprawling 13.93-acre plot next to the Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (DUK) in Technopark Phase IV, Pallipuram, the park is designed as India's first third-generation digital science park. It aims to move beyond the conventional IT park model by establishing a concentrated ecosystem for deep-tech research and development.
Vision and Infrastructure of the Park
The park's first phase will feature a five-storey core building spanning 1.5 lakh square feet. This structure will be equipped with cutting-edge research laboratories dedicated to frontier technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, semiconductors, and other digital deep-tech domains. A subsequent building planned for later phases will house administrative offices and a digital experience centre designed to showcase innovations and promote collaboration.
The project is being implemented by IIITM-K (Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management-Kerala) as the special purpose vehicle, with Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Ltd (KSITIL) acting as the project consultant. The vision is to create a cluster-based innovation ecosystem using a 'triple helix' model that seamlessly integrates academia, industry, and government support to speed up translational research and commercialisation of ideas.
Timeline and Broader Impact
DUK Vice-Chancellor Saji Gopinath expressed confidence in the project's swift start, stating that the work order will be issued post-tender finalisation. He indicated that the first phase is expected to be completed within 16 months of commencement. Originally announced in the 2022-23 state budget with an overall outlay of Rs 1,000 crore for four such parks, this Digital Science Park is a cornerstone of Kerala's technology roadmap.
Beyond its research mandate, the park is anticipated to generate significant economic value by attracting multinational partnerships and collaborations with foreign universities. It is set to solidify Thiruvananthapuram's reputation as a nerve centre for innovation, hosting centres of excellence, advanced labs, and digital incubators that will drive the state's future in the global tech arena.
