Thiruvananthapuram Light Metro: Preparatory Works Inauguration Next Month.

The preparatory works of the proposed light metro projects for Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram will be inaugurated on March 4 and March 9 respectively.

With the Centre’s ‘in-principle’ approval expected in three month’s time, the stage is set for major works including the construction of the rolling stocks (rail coaches) and civil works. Flyovers and subways are also proposed in both cities as part of the civil works.

Addressing the mediapersons, E Sreedharan, Principal Advisor, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, said that a meeting would be held in New Delhi in the first week of March and the stake holders would give a detailed presentation on the procurement of rolling stocks.

“The two light metro projects will be the first of its kind in the country. The first phase will take around five years in Thiruvananthapuram and four years in Kozhikode to get completed. We are waiting for the principal approval from the Central Government to start the major works at the earliest. However, we will also work accordingly to commission the first sector of both the projects in three years,' Sreedharan said.

Sreedharan also said the completion of preparatory works prior to ‘in-principle’ approval could help save two years of implementation time. He also expressed interest to partner with the execution of the project.

The Kerala Rapid Transit Corporation Limited (KRTL) will execute the Light Metro projects in 35.15 km in two cities. It involves 19 stations from Pallipuram to Karamana in Thiruvananthapuram and 14 stations from Medical College to Meenchanda in Kozhikode. P I Sheikh Pareeth, Managing Director of KRTL, was also present for the press conference.

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS