Three Firms shortlisted for Third Rail Electrification Contract of Kochi Metro Phase 2

Kochi, India (Metro Rail Today): The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), in last week, has announced the names of three firms that have submitted technically accepted bids for the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the Third Rail Traction Electrification System and associated works for the Phase 2 (Pink Line) of the Kochi Metro project.

The shortlisted bidders are:

• Kalpataru Projects International Ltd.

• Siemens Limited

• Sterling & Wilson Pvt. Ltd.

According to the tender notice, the contract will be executed over a 24-month period from the date of issue of the Letter of Award (LoA) or Notice to Proceed (NTP).

The scope of work includes design verification, detailed engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of a 750V DC third rail traction electrification system, along with traction substations (TSS), auxiliary substations (ASS), and SCADA systems.

The third rail traction system has been selected over the conventional overhead catenary due to space constraints along narrow viaducts in densely populated areas. The system eliminates overhead wires, reduces visual clutter, and enhances safety and maintenance efficiency—making it ideal for Kochi’s urban landscape.

Phase 2 of the Kochi Metro, also known as the Pink Line, spans 11.2 km and connects JLN Stadium to Infopark II, covering 11 stations.

List of Stations:

1. JLN Stadium

2. Palarivattom Junction

3. Palarivattom Bypass

4. Chembumukku

5. Vazhakkala

6. Padamughal

7. Kakkanad Junction

8. Cochin SEZ

9. Chittethukara

10. Kinfra

11. Infopark

12. Infopark II

The civil construction for the Pink Line’s elevated viaduct is already underway, being executed by Afcons Infrastructure Limited at an estimated cost of ₹1,141.32 crore. The first section, up to Padamugal, is targeted for commissioning by June 2026, while the full 11.2 km stretch is expected to be operational by December 2026.

The Kochi Metro Phase 2 project is designed to significantly improve accessibility to Kakkanad, a fast-growing IT and commercial hub that houses major technology parks such as Infopark and Kinfra.

The Pink Line, symbolizing inclusivity and safety, particularly focuses on enhancing mobility for women professionals working in Kakkanad. With improved last-mile connectivity and seamless interchange at JLN Stadium with the Blue Line, Phase 2 will further strengthen the metro’s role as a sustainable urban mobility backbone for Kochi.

Once completed, the Pink Line will not only reduce congestion along the Kakkanad corridor but also enhance intermodal connectivity by linking metro, bus, and other last-mile networks. The project underscores KMRL’s vision for sustainable urban mobility, aligning with India’s Smart City and Viksit Bharat 2047 missions.

The evaluation of financial bids is expected to follow soon, paving the way for the award of this crucial electrification contract and setting the stage for faster, cleaner, and more reliable metro operations in Kochi.