Kerala’s second metro rail project is on the verge of approval, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeking the Union Minister of Urban Development’s nod for the third phase of the Kochi Metro, alongside metro projects in Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram. The state government is prioritizing the swift approval of the Thiruvananthapuram metro project, aiming to address the growing traffic congestion in the capital city.
Thiruvananthapuram Metro to Enhance Urban Mobility
The project, which will be executed in two phases, is set to integrate with existing transportation systems, enhancing both convenience and economic growth. Following successful initiatives like the Vizhinjam project, the metro will be operated by Kerala Rapid Transit Corporation Limited (KRTC), making Thiruvananthapuram a model for sustainable urban development. The state cabinet is expected to approve the detailed project report (DPR), which will then be forwarded to the Centre for approval.
Key Features of Thiruvananthapuram Metro
The metro will span 42 kilometres, with 37 stations planned along the route. The initial phase will cover key areas, including Technopark, Putharikandam Maidan, Karyavattom, the Medical College, and Thampanoor Central Bus Depot. The transportation planning and Alternative Analysis Report (AAR) have already been submitted, and upon approval, the final alignment will be sent to the Ministry of Urban Affairs for central approval and funding.
Kochi Metro’s Role in Oversight
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) will oversee the project, ensuring its alignment with the state’s broader transport development goals. The metro aims to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and set the stage for further urban development in Thiruvananthapuram.
