The industrial visit to Kerala, spanning from July 2nd to July 6th, 2024, provided a comprehensive exploration into the state's engineering achievements and cultural heritage. Commencing at the Hill Palace Museum in Ernakulam, students examined the architectural and civil engineering feats of the 17th century, elucidating the meticulous craftsmanship and strategic layout characteristic of the era.
Subsequently, students visited the Kochi International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) at Vallarpadam. Operated by Dubai Ports World (DPW) within a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), the terminal serves as a pioneering transshipment hub and the inaugural container terminal within an SEZ in India. Commissioned in phases, the ICTT currently manages up to one million TEUs annually, with plans to expand to 5.5 million TEUs upon final phase completion. This facility not only sets benchmarks in container handling efficiency but also underscores Kerala's pivotal role in global trade logistics.
The itinerary continued with a visit to Mandalpatti Dam, notable for its concrete construction and modular design enabling independent operational sections. The dam's capacity to store 55.4 million cubic meters of water and its expansive water spread area contribute significantly to regional water management and agricultural sustainability.
Further enriching the educational experience, students explored Kundala Dam in Mattupetty, a cornerstone of the Pallivasal Hydroelectric Project. Celebrated as Asia's first arch dam, Kundala Dam exemplifies advanced engineering techniques in hydroelectric power generation and underscores Kerala's commitment to renewable energy development while preserving its cultural heritage.
