Kochi: In a significant development for Kerala’s public transportation network, the state government has formally requested financial assistance from the central government to support the Kochi Metro’s third phase, which is set to link Aluva to Cochin International Airport and onward to Angamaly. The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has prepared a proposal, detailing plans to create a metro line connecting these locations, including a 5-km underground stretch near the airport for seamless access. Should central funding not be approved, KMRL has committed to covering the costs of revising and finalizing the project report.
Initially, Phase 3 was designed to connect Aluva to Angamaly, with a separate link to the airport, but this plan was revised due to construction challenges. The revised alignment now aims for a single route from Aluva, passing through Kariyad Junction and Athani before heading underground near the airport and then continuing elevated to Angamaly. With an estimated cost of around Rs 8,000 crore, the project will require approximately 6.5 hectares of land, making acquisition a substantial component of the project’s planning and budgeting.
The Kochi Metro Phase 3 is projected to cover about 19 km, combining elevated sections with a crucial underground portion near the airport. This section is expected to streamline travel, connecting key hubs while addressing logistical concerns. The initial estimate for the Aluva-Angamaly route, including 11 stations over 14 km, was around Rs 3,115 crore. This cost could increase as the revised project report develops, taking into account potential land acquisition needs and other logistical adjustments.
With detailed traffic studies and project assessments underway, Kochi Metro’s third phase aims to balance cost, feasibility, and accessibility, ultimately providing a modern transit solution for Kerala’s growing commuter base.
