Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on **Monday inaugurated the new 100-bed facility at the Cochin Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) located near the Government Medical College campus in Kalamassery, Kochi. The state-of-the-art facility, constructed at a cost of approximately ₹449 crore, was funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) and expands cancer care capacity in central Kerala.
The inauguration marks the operational launch of the centre’s first phase, featuring a modern six-story building equipped with advanced medical infrastructure spread over about 6.3 lakh square feet. The facility is designed to offer comprehensive cancer treatment, including diagnostics, inpatient care, and supportive services for patients from Ernakulam and neighbouring districts.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Vijayan underscored the growing challenge of cancer as a lifestyle-related disease and stressed the need for prevention, early detection, and public awareness in tackling its rising incidence. A Cancer Control Board has been established by the government to coordinate state-wide cancer management policies and strengthen the healthcare response.
Health Minister Veena George highlighted Kerala’s commitment to providing high-quality cancer treatment at minimal cost, noting that medicines and therapies are made available at the lowest possible rates to ensure accessibility. Industries Minister P. Rajeeve reaffirmed the government’s objective to offer advanced cancer care free of charge to those in need.
The CCRC, operational in smaller capacity since 2016, has grown into a key cancer treatment centre for the region. The newly inaugurated facility is expected to significantly reduce patients’ travel burdens and enhance care quality by bringing specialised oncology services closer to central Kerala’s population.
Additionally, the centre has also received recognition for sustainable infrastructure practices, earning a green building certificate from the World Bank during the event — reflecting an emphasis on environmentally responsible design.
The expansion represents a major leap for Kerala’s healthcare ecosystem, aiming to balance treatment, research, and preventive strategies in the state’s battle against cancer.
