Kerala's Capital Metro Rail Project Estimated at Rs 11,600 Crore, Final DPR Expected in June

The proposed conventional metro rail project in Kerala's capital, Thiruvananthapuram, is expected to cost an estimated Rs 11,560.8 crore, according to the detailed project report (DPR) prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The funds will be allocated across two corridors: Rs 7,503.18 crore for Corridor I, which runs from Technocity at Pallipuram to Pallichal, and Rs 4,057.7 crore for Corridor II, spanning from Kazhakkoottam to Killipalam.

An executive summary of the DPR, currently under review by the Kerala state government, outlines the planned construction. Sources close to the state government revealed that the summary, submitted by the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) in February, is likely to be approved next month. The total cost covers civil, electrical, signaling, telecommunication works, rolling stock, environmental protection, and rehabilitation.

According to the summary, the first corridor spans 30.8 km and will feature 25 elevated stations. The second corridor, measuring 15.9 km, will have 13 stations, of which 11 will be elevated and two underground, at East Fort and Killipalam Junction. Kazhakkoottam and Killipalam will be the terminal stations.

On April 15, the state government convened a high-level meeting led by former chief secretary K M Abraham to discuss the project's alignment and other details. It was noted that the Public Works Department (PWD) is currently reviewing the executive summary, which will also be submitted to various stakeholders for feedback. Once in-principle approval is granted by the state government, KMRL can submit the final DPR to DMRC for final approval.

The final DPR is likely to be submitted to KMRL in June after the model code of conduct is lifted, with the first construction activities expected at Sreekaryam and Pattom flyovers.

KMRL's proposed metro project in Thiruvananthapuram is seen as a crucial infrastructure development to address potential traffic congestion, particularly given the future growth associated with the upcoming Vizhinjam Port and the expansion of IT-related activities. The comprehensive mobility plan (CMP) anticipates a peak hour peak direction traffic of 19,747 by 2051, underscoring the need for a conventional metro to ease pressure on the city's transportation infrastructure.

DMRC's field survey, completed in December, was a preliminary step in preparing the DPR. It covered a proposed 45 km alignment, including routes along NH-66, providing key insights into the most effective metro layout for the city.

ET