Coimbatore defence industrial park awaits first investment after five years

The defence industrial park in Coimbatore, first proposed more than five years ago, is yet to attract any investment. The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is developing the park on 350 acres at Varapatti, near Sulur, in Coimbatore district.

Of the total land, 280 acres have been set aside for industries and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the semi-conductor, defence, and aerospace sectors. Last year, the Tamil Nadu government announced that the park would be commissioned by the end of 2025. The then Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, had handed over letters allocating approximately 45 acres across 10 industrial units.

However, none of the businesses have invested in the park so far. Industry and government sources told The Hindu on Saturday that land allocation was still under way and that a welcoming announcement was expected shortly. They said a couple of large-scale industries in the defence and aerospace segments were expected to invest in the park soon.

“There is some movement regarding the park. The officials have indicated that a couple of industries will break ground at the park soon,” said an office-bearer of an industrial association for MSMEs, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The office-bearer added that everyone wanted to be careful given the several factors affecting industries in recent years.

The park is part of the state’s efforts to promote defence manufacturing and attract investment in high-technology sectors. Its proximity to Sulur, which hosts an Indian Air Force station, is seen as a strategic advantage, though the slow progress has raised questions among local businesses about the pace of implementation.

Industry observers say the delay is not unique to this park, with land acquisition, clearances, and market conditions often affecting such projects. The state government has maintained that it is committed to completing the project and expects fresh momentum in the coming months.

As the process continues, the industrial community in Coimbatore is watching closely for concrete developments. The outcome will likely depend on how quickly the remaining land is allotted and whether the announced investments materialise on the ground.