Kochi Metro likely to launch Pettah-SN Junction stretch to public in June

Kochi, India (Metro Rail Today): The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is likely to commission the 1.80-km-long Pettah-SN Junction stretch of the Kochi Metro Rail Project Phase 1A in June 2022 which was earlier expected in April. The civil work of this small section has been completed by KMRL itself without taking assistance from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) which was the General Consultant for Phase 1.

KMRL has recently completed speed trials on this stretch and the service trial is expected to begin in the first week of May. Also, the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) may be called for a safety inspection of the stretch by the end of May. The finishing works on Vadakkekotta and SN Junction stations are being carried out, while fire safety inspection will be done in a week. 

The work on the 1.80-km stretch began on April 21, 2020, at the estimated cost of Rs 453 crore and went on as scheduled, despite COVID curbs. The viaduct construction was completed within 795 days of the commencement of piling work. The land for the two stations was acquired at the cost of Rs 99 crore.

KMRL has acquired 85% of the land needed for the SN Junction-Thripunithura extension. Piling and allied construction work are underway in 50% of the acquired land.