Kochi: The decade old proposal that ignited Kerala's hopes to become a major player in the global IT map is finally taking its toddler steps.

The first phase of SmartCity Kochi that can accommodate 6,000 employees will be inaugurated before June 2015.

Speaking to reporters at Nedumbasserry on Friday after the company director board meeting, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the works will be completed by March 15 as scheduled.

A date convenient for all for inauguration will be announced later. Three companies have already signed up for space and will be functional when the building is opened, he said.

The first phase, built at a cost of Rs 3,400 per sq ft with Lead Platinum certification, comes on 11 acres with a total built up area of 6.5 lakh sq ft.

The board cleared an investment of Rs 250 crore in the next financial year. Of this, Rs 150 crore will be for the second phase with 6.5 lakh sq ft and Rs 100 crore for infrastructure facilities such as roads, power and beautification of the canal, Mr Chandy said.

Industries and IT Minister P K Kunhalikkutty said Smart City will launch a professional marketing campaign in IT cities to attract major names to set up shop here. Co-developers will find SmartCity an attractive destination as it has environmental clearance for the entire project.

SmartCity vice-chairman Abdullatif AlMulla said it was a major achievement that the first building was completed as scheduled. “When the whole project is ready, as per the original framework agreement, it will generate 90,000 IT jobs.

A major international builder is already in town to discuss joint development in non-IT sector,” he said. SmartCity chief executive officer Gigo Joseph said three co-developers will start construction next year.