Extension of Kochi Metro from Pettah to Tripunithura under Govt consideration

Kochi: Extension of the Kochi Metro Project from Pettah to Tripunithura was under the consideration of the Centre, Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu said Wednesday.

Naidu was speaking after reviewing the progress of the Rs 5181 crore project of about 25.612 km from Aluva to Pettah stretch.

On the proposed second phase extension to Kochi airport and Kakkanad, the minister said government was inclined to support the proposal, but only after their viability and financial feasibility are worked out.

"We will be inclined to support the scheme, but provided the details are worked out and then viability and financial feasibility has to be studied', the minister said.

Kochi is a prestigious city and it can become a smart city also and the expansion of the metro will add to its beauty and raise its importance as it was providing livelihood to many people across the state, he said.

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd Managing Director, Elias George informed the minister about the issues regarding funding.

Though KRML had sought Rs 800 crore as equity this year, the Centre had so far given only Rs 400 crore, KMRL sources said.

The KMRL has sought for Rs 400 crore more.

The KMRL also submitted a Rs 57 crore project for reviving water transport to the minister. This project has already got the sanction of the state government.