The Kerala Government has approved in principle the alignment for Phase I of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail Project, marking a significant step toward modernising the state capital’s public transport infrastructure.
As per the latest Government Order, the first phase will run 31 km from Pappanamcode to Eanchakkal, covering 27 stations. The approved corridor includes major stops such as Pappanamcode, Kaimanam, Killipalam Junction, Thampanoor, Secretariat, Palayam, Pattom, Medical College, Sreekaryam, Technopark (Phases I–III), Kochuveli, Chakka, Airport, and Eanchakkal.
The decision follows detailed studies and multiple review meetings conducted by the Secretary-level Committee led by the Chief Secretary, with participation from the Finance, Revenue, Local Self-Government, and Transport (Metro) departments.
Initial studies by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), which was handed charge of the project from Kerala Rapid Transit Corporation Ltd. (KRTL), revealed that a Light Metro or Monorail system would not meet the city’s future mobility needs. Based on the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP), Alternative Analysis Report (AAR), and Environmental & Economic feasibility studies, KMRL recommended a conventional Metro system, similar to Kochi Metro, as the most viable option.
The new alignment ensures connectivity to major transport hubs like the North Railway Station and Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, in line with the Metro Rail Policy 2017 and guidelines from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
The inclusion of Technopark Phase II in the first phase was a key recommendation from stakeholders, addressing the area’s growing commuter demand.
The Government has now directed KMRL’s Managing Director to prepare and submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the approved corridor, ensuring compliance with central policy guidelines.
Once completed, the Thiruvananthapuram Metro is expected to transform daily commuting, reduce congestion, promote sustainable urban mobility, and integrate seamlessly with the city’s existing transport infrastructure.
