Kochi Metro completes DPR of 11.2 km Kakkanad - Infopark Extension corridor

Kochi, India (Metro Rail Today): Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has prepared the detailed project report (DPR) of long-awaited 11.2 km extension of Kochi Metro Rail Project under Phase 2. KMRL will submit a report to Kerala government within 7-10 days, linking the metro’s upcoming Thripunithura terminal station and the Kakkanad (Infopark) extension. 

The MG Road-Menaka extension and extensions from Aluva to the international airport and Angamaly too will find mention in the report, which is being readied on the basis of a preliminary study done by KMRL.

“Modalities like funding ought to be worked out. We ventured into the study on the basis of demand from different sections of society and a lawyers’ association, which specifically demanded the metro’s extension to Menaka. The extensions have been mooted since the [existing] linear route alone might not be enough to get adequate patronage for the system of mass rapid transport,” said Loknath Behara, Managing Director, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd.

Sources said that work on the extensions can gain pace if the State government gives in-principle nod, following which the proposal ought to get clearance from the board of directors of Kochi Metro rail Limited and be yet again forwarded to the government for formal sanction.

Unlike Phase I, the KMRL will implement Phase II independently without the involvement of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The Phase II of Kochi Metro comprises a 11.2 km line from Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad. There will be 11 stations on the line - Palarivattom Junction, Palarivattom Signal, Chembumukku, Vazhakkala, Kunnumpuram, Kakkanad Junction, Kochi Special Economic Zone, Chittethukara, Rajagiri, InfoPark I and InfoPark II.

The Airport and Angamaly extensions are expected to further improve footfall in the metro.