Kochi Metro Explained

Kochi Metro
Owner:Kochi Metro Rail Limited
Locale:Kochi, Kerala, India
Transit Type:Rapid Transit
Lines:1 (Operational)
1 (Under construction)
1 (Planned)[1]
Stations:25
Phase I – 25
Phase II – 11[2]
Phase III – 14[3]
Daily Ridership:95,000 (December 2023)[4]
Annual Ridership:3.1 crores (31 million - 2023)[5]
Chief Executive:Lokanath Behera, MD
Headquarters:Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium Metro Station, 4th Floor,Kaloor, Kochi, Kerala – 682017[6]
Operator:KMRL
Train Length:3 coaches[7]
Headway:8 minutes
System Length: (operational)[8]
(Phase II – Under construction)
(Phase III – Planned)[9]
Track Gauge:[10]
El:[11]
Map State:collapsed

The Kochi Metro is a rapid transit system serving the city of Kochi and the wider Kochi Metropolitan Region in Kerala, India. It was opened to the public within four years of starting construction, making it one of the fastest completed metro projects in India.[12] [13] The Kochi metro project is the first metro system in the country which connects rail, road and water transport facilities. It is also the first metro rail system in India to be operated using the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system, which requires minimum human intervention. The Kochi Water Metro is integrated with the Kochi Metro, which also serves as a feeder service to the suburbs along the rivers where transport accessibility is limited.[14]

Kochi Metro is being constructed in three phases. The construction work of the first phase began in June 2013. The 13.4km (08.3miles) section of the line from Aluva to Palarivattom consisting 11 stations was opened to passengers on 17 June 2017 by Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India.[15] The first phase spanning 28.125km (17.476miles) from Aluva to Thrippunithura with 25 stations was completed in March 2024 at an estimated cost of .[16] The second phase from JLN Stadium to Infopark-Kakkanad, known as the Pink Line, is expected to be commissioned by 2028.[17] And the work has already started.

Kochi Metro was lauded for its decision to employ Kudumbashree workers and also members of the transgender community.[18] It is the world's first rapid transit system whose entire management operations are handled by women.[19] The system is also involved in sustainable initiatives with the introduction of non-motorized transport corridors in the city, installation of solar panels for power and vertical garden on every sixth metro pillar. Every Kochi Metro station is designed on a specific theme around Kerala culture and geography.[20] Apart from the regular tickets, it has also adopted a single card, single timetable and a singular command and control. This debit card along with the Kochi One Mobile App allow passengers to access all modes of public transportation. It can be also utilized for mercantile and internet transactions and will introduce the click and collect feature in the near future where goods ordered online can be collected in the metro stations.[21] Google and Kochi Metro Rail Limited have announced a partnership to enhance digital ticketing options for metro users through Google Wallet.[22] In October 2017, Kochi Metro was named the Best Urban Mobility Project in India by the Urban Development Ministry, as part of the Urban Mobility India (UMI) international conference hosted by the ministry every year.[23]

Planning

The government led by E.K. Nayanar ideated the project in 1999.[24] [25] The cabinet meeting held on 21 July 1999, of the then Left Democratic Front (Kerala) government, assigned Rail India Technological and Economic Services (RITES) for the feasibility study for a metro rapid transport system in Kochi.[26] The techno-economic feasibility study for a Metro Rapid Transit System in Kochi was completed in 1999, which was begun in the same year, by Rail India Technological and Economic Services (RITES).[27] The techno-feasibility study report was submitted to the state government in 1999.[28]

On 22 December 2004, the United Democratic Front Government led by Oommen Chandy assigned the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) the task of preparing the detailed project report (DPR) for the Kochi Metro rail project. It was expected to start by 2006 and complete by 2010. But the project was delayed because the Central Government expressed serious doubts about the economic viability of the project.[29] In 2008 LDF Government under the Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan approved the Kochi Metro rail project in a cabinet meeting held on 2 January 2008 and sent to Central Government for ratification.[30]

The Kerala government hoped the centre would approve a funding structure similar to that used for the Delhi Metro, but they were turned down.[31] The Union Government supported using public-private partnership (PPP) on the build-operate-transfer model.[32] The LDF state government wanted it to be in public sector, which was not convenient to the Central Government. The victory of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in the 2011 Kerala legislative assembly elections, changed the scenario in the state[33] and it was decided that the Kochi Metro would follow the Chennai Metro and Delhi Metro models, and would be implemented on a joint venture basis, with investments by the Central and State Government. A Cabinet decision was taken to form a special purpose vehicle (SPV) called Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) as per orders from Planning Commission and the Union Government for the implementation, operation and maintenance of the metro project.[34]

The Public Investment Board (PIB) cleared the project on 22 March 2012 subject to final approval by the Union Cabinet.[35] The Union Government's share of the cost would be 20.26%, or .[36] On 28 March 2012, at a KMRL board meeting, the decision was taken to entrust the Kochi Metro rail project work to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The number of metro stations on the line was set at 22.[37] [38] On 3 July 2012, Union Government gave final clearance to the project. Then Managing Director of KMRL, Tom Jose said, "Now we will sit down with our valued partner, DMRC, and chalk out the way forward, obtaining advice and guidance from former DMRC Chief, E Sreedharan. We aim to complete the project within a span of 3 to 4 years."[39]

On 14 August 2012, the state government reconstituted the Board of Directors of KMRL. Power Secretary Elias George was appointed as the new Managing Director, replacing Tom Jose. It is believed that Jose's differences with Sreedharan led to the decision.[40] [41] The then Chief Minister Oommen Chandi stated that it was part of an administrative decision. The rest of the board would include the Chief Secretary, Finance Secretary and Principal Secretary (Water Resources).[42]

The Director Board of Kochi Metro Rail Limited entrusted MD, KMRL to find alternate funding options for the project as advised by DEA (Department of Economic Affairs). As part of it, representatives of the French Development Agency (AFD) met the KMRL team as part of their pre-appraisal mission on 18–19 March 2013. The agency had detailed discussions with KMRL MD Elias George and other senior officials. They also visited the project alignment from Aluva to Pettah to understand the project better. Mme. Aude Flogny, Regional Director, South Asia & Mr. Gautier Kohler, Project Coordinator India were there in the team.[43] [44] Based on the inputs received from the pre-appraisal mission team of AFD, a formal detailed- appraisal mission team visited Kochi from 25 to 27 April 2013. The team included Senior Transport Expert of AFD, Mr. Xavier Hoang; AFD regional director for South Asia, Aude Flogny and Project Coordinator, Gautier Kohler. The team inspected the project site and held discussions relating to the funding for Kochi Metro Rail project. Kochi Metro Rail Limited is hoping to get a final commitment from the French financial agency AFD – Agence Française de Développement by the end of December 2013. AFD has stated that they could provide a loan of up to 130 million Euros which is around Rs. 10 billion.

On 4 April 2013, KMRL's Director Board signed a contract with the DMRC.[45] The 22 proposed stations for the Kochi Metro were approved by the State Cabinet on 19 June 2013.[46]

Controversy over DMRC's role

The selection of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation as operator of the project was a source of controversy, though they were ultimately awarded the contract. Some government ministers and IAS officials alleged that Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) norms do not allow awarding of a contract to an agency which did the consultancy for a project.[47] However, DMRC principal adviser E. Sreedharan has stated that the CVC norms would not apply in this case, as the contract is between two government agencies. Another issue for the metro was that DMRC had to obtain the permission of its director's board to

The Corporation of Cochin and Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany supported handing over work to DMRCThe metro was built by E. Sreedharan, 'Metro Man' Technocrat who earlier created Delhi Metro and Konkan Railway.[48]

Preparatory work and supporting activities

The DMRC felt that it was necessary to undertake preparatory works to avoid disruptions to commuters during the construction of the Kochi Metro. The agency suggested five preparatory works to the State government, which approved all five projects in March 2010. The preparatory works were intended to be completed before constructing the metro.[49] The works included the widening of 3 arterial roads and the construction of a new rail over bridge (RoB) near KSRTC station and a foot over bridge.[50] [51] The A.L. Jacob RoB near the KSRTC stand, commissioned on 12 May 2013, was the first of the five works to be completed. Apart from the five originally proposed projects, some additional projects such as the construction of the Ernakulam North RoB,[49] and the flyover at Edapally were also carried out.

The work was being undertaken by DMRC initially but was later undertaken by KMRL, due to a shortage of qualified personnel with the DMRC.[52] Other projects include construction of a new RoB connecting Mullassery Canal Road and Salim Rajan Road, and the widening of the Town Hall-Madhava Pharmacy Junction stretch, and Jos Junction-South Railway Station road.[53] The DMRC will execute all preparatory works. The State Government had set apart 1.58 billion for preliminary works. On 3 March 2012, KMRL handed over 150 million to DMRC for undertaking the preparatory works. The DMRC had been given 230 million earlier.[54] [55] [56] [57]

Flyover at Edappally

KMRL and the Kerala Public Works Department (PWD) signed an agreement on 22 July 2013, to build a flyover at Edapally[58] to reduce the congestion at the junction of the erstwhile NH 47 and NH 17 (now NH 544 and NH 66)at Edappally.[59] The DMRC was appointed to implement the project.

Education minister C Raveendranath inaugurated the 433-meter long flyover on 11 September 2016. It is supported by Twenty-four piers with 90 piles. The estimated cost of building the structure was, however, the total expenditure was, which included costs for land acquisition and construction.[60] Kadakampally Surendran who is the current Minister for Devaswom, Tourism and Co-Operation declared that the inauguration of Kochi Metro Train service is expected to occur on 30 May 2017[61]

Pachalam railway over bridge

On 21 February 2014, the Kerala High Court expressed its displeasure over the failure of the Kochi Corporation to finalise the final alignment of the proposed rail over bridge (ROB) at Pachalam submitted by the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation. The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Manjula Chellur and Justice A.M. Shafeeque directed the corporation to place on record the final alignment of the ROB by 2 April 2014. The Bench observed that the civic body had "not moved an inch", after the discussion on the alignment submitted by the Roads and Bridges Development Corporation in 2011.[62]

The Pachalam RoB was approved in-principle by the Kochi Corporation on 10 February 2014.[63] The RoB received approval from the State Cabinet on 26 February.[64] The 2-lane, 10-metre wide RoB is estimated to cost and will be constructed by the DMRC.[63] About 52 cents of land will be acquired for the project.[65]

The foundation stone for the project was laid on 4 March,[66] and construction was expected to complete in 6 months.[67] It was inaugurated on 11 January 2016. Cherian Varkey Construction Company was the contractor for the project.

Shifting Vyttila station

Based on suggestions from Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), Kochi, Kochi Metro Rail Limited decided to shift Vyttila station to Vyttila Mobility Hub to follow the guidelines of the Ministry of Urban Development so that the station could also provide bus and water transport.[68] Long-distance buses operate out of Vyttila hub and the hub authorities are planning to build a new boat jetty there as the part of their second phase of development. Thus, the Kochi metro project became the first metro in the country which connects rail, road and water transport facilities.[69]

Land acquisition

The total amount of land required for the project is 40.409 hectares. The total land required for all stations is 9.3941 hectares, including area required for parking lots. Aluva, Pettah, Kalamassery, Edappally and Kaloor stations will have larger parking areas requiring about 2.7869 hectares of land. The coach depot at Muttom requires 23.605 hectares of land, higher than the originally estimated 17 hectares.[70] [71] [72] [73] Approximately, 4.6 hectares of land will be required for widening curves and stretches where the metro's viaduct is positioned outside the median. Apart from the above, 102.50 cents of land is required for preparatory works, and 94 hectares in Muttom and 20 hectares of land in Kakkanad is to be acquired for developing the land for commercial use .[74]

The original plan was to acquire about 31.9217 hectares of land in Ernakulam, Elamkulam, Poonithura, Thrikkakara North, Edappally South and Aluva West. Out of this approximately, 17 hectares was for the Muttom coach maintenance depot. The remaining land was required for the construction of metro stations. Approximately, 15 hectares out of the required 31.92 was government-owned land. However, the land required for parking at stations, road widening and straightening curves along the alignment was not assessed in the original plan.[75] The addition of parking lots increased the amount of land required by 8.4874 hectares.

The district-level purchase committee fixed the maximum compensation for land acquisition at 5.2 million percent for the land to be acquired for preparatory works. The district administration can take ownership of land only after paying at least 80% of the price. Land acquisition for a foot overbridge near the KSRTC main depot will cost 2.8 million percent and land for the approach road of the Ponnurunni railway overbridge will be acquired at 1850,000 percent. The prices have been approved by the State Empowered Committee.[76] [77] The total estimated cost of land acquisition is 11.10 billion., higher than the 6.72 billion estimated as per the original plan.[78] [79] The Kadavanthra station was built on the land which housed GCDA's Nandanam park near the canal. Part of the land required was obtained from the Greater Cochin Development Authority on 13 February 2014.[80] The remaining land was owned by the KSEB and was acquired separately.[81]

When the Railways demanded 3 billion for a 35-year lease of 4360m2 of land intended as the location of Ernakulam South metro station and other facilities, KMRL officials rejected the offer, as 3 billion worked out to about 8% of the metro project's total cost. The station was instead built on land owned by the Kochi Corporation near Ernakulam Girls' High School, while the Operations Control Centre was built in Muttom. The cost for the station was 100 million.[82]

Construction

Phase I: Aluva to Petta

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh laid the foundation stone for the project on 13 September 2012.[83] [84] [85] Construction work on the Kochi Metro rail project began on 7 June 2013,[86] with the piling works for the viaducts near Changampuzha Park, after an official launch ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium at 10:30 am on the same day.[87] [88] [89] [90] At the inauguration ceremony, the State Government announced that the metro would be extended a kilometre-and-a-half from Pettah to Tripunithura,[91] Construction work on Metro' first station, at Kaloor, began at 10:30 am IST on 30 September 2013, when Soma Constructions began piling.[92] [93] The next station where piling work was carried out was Aluva.[94] Several companies (Era Infra Engineering, Larsen & Toubro, Cherian Varkey Construction Company-RDS, SP Singla Constructions and Soma Constructions) were contracted to build viaducts and stations.[95] [96] [97] Larsen and Toubro (L&T) was awarded the contract to construct the viaduct and 6 stations on the Kalamassery-Stadium stretch[98] in April 2013 at an estimated cost of .[99] Cherian Varkey Constructions-RDS(CVCC-RDS JV) were awarded the work for the demolition of the existing ROB and rebuilding of the north over bridge into a 4 lane road with metro viaducts.

About NaNm2 of sand was required for construction of the metro. KMRL has set up a vertical garden on every sixth pillar along the metro rail system.

The first U-shaped concrete girder of the Kochi Metro Rail was successfully installed on Saturday, 12 July 2014 early morning. The girder was installed at Pulinchode near Aluva. The ‘U- shaped’ girder was cast at the Metro Casting Yard at Kalamassery. It was transported from the yard around 7 pm on Friday with the help of two huge cranes and special trailers brought from Mumbai.[100] The girder reached the site at midnight and was installed with the help of cranes having capacities of 350 tonnes and 400 tonnes.

The first trial run was flagged off by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, on 23 January 2016. The three-car train set successfully completed the trial run.[101] The first test run of the Kochi metro was conducted on 27 February 2016 on a 1km (01miles) section between Muttom Yard depot and Kalamassery at speeds of up to 10km/h.[102]

The Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO) cleared the metro to operate at a maximum speed of 80km/h on 8 December 2016.[103] [104] On 8 May 2017, Kochi Metro was given the final approval to start service.[105] The 5km (03miles) line from Palarivattom to Maharaja's College metro station was inaugurated on 3 October 2017.

In July 2017, a consortium of Cherian Varkey Construction Company (CVCC) and Vijay Nirman Constructions (VNC) were given the contract to execute the construction works from Maharaja's College to Pettah. The 5.65km (03.51miles) line from Maharaja's College Stadium to Thaikoodam was inaugurated on 3 September 2019 by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri.[106]

Phase I extensions: IA and IB

KMRL approved the extension of the metro to Tripunithura on 27 January 2014. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Union Urban Development Secretary and KMRL chairman Sudhir Krishna announced that the 2km (01miles) extension would cost an additional . The State Cabinet approved the Tripunithura extension on 5 March 2014, based on the preliminary RITES report.[107] The extension added two more stations, near Vadakkekotta and SN Junction, to the line.[108] The construction of the final Thrippunithura station of Phase I was completed in December 2023 and was inaugurated on 6 March 2024, making the first phase of the Kochi Metro fully operational.[109]

Phase II: Kakkanad Infopark extension

In November 2016, KMRL began the land acquisition process for an extension of the metro up to Infopark. KMRL will widen the Kakkanad-Airport corridor to a 22-metre-wide stretch, and construct metro pillars in the centre of the stretch. Palarivattom Junction, Palarivattom Bypass Junction and Collectorate Junction will also be widened.[110] The 11.2km (07miles) extension will link Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad,[111] and the estimated cost at the time of propossal was .[111] Ernakulam District Collector K. Mohammed Y. Safirulla stated in March 2017, that the land evaluation process for the project had been completed.[112]

The State Cabinet approved Phase II of the Kochi Metro on 17 May 2017. Unlike Phase I, the KMRL will implement Phase II independently without the involvement of the DMRC.[113] Phase II comprises a 11.2km (07miles) line from Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad. There will be 11 stations on the line – Palarivattom Junction, Palarivattom Signal, Chembumukku, Vazhakkala, Kunnumpuram, Kakkanad Junction, Kochi Special Economic Zone, Chittethukara, Rajagiri, InfoPark I and InfoPark II.[114]

The foundation stone of the Phase II of Kochi Metro was laid by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 September 2022.[115] In September 2023, it was announced that the Phase II stretch will be known as the 'Pink Line'. The Kerala government approved funding of for the second phase on 4 December 2023.[116] The commissioning of the Pink Line is expected by 2028.[117] The construction of the Kochi Metro Phase II began on 3rd July 2024. [118]

Phase III: Airport extension

The third phase of Kochi Metro from Aluva to Angamaly is expected to be around 20 km including connectivity with Cochin International Airport. The airport authority had requested that the State Government build the metro link in the second phase, but the government decided to take it up in the third phase instead.[119] KMRL are considering two alignments. The first is the main line from Athani Junction to Angamaly, and from there a link to the airport. The second alignment is from Athani to Angamaly via Airport.[120]

Feasibility Study for Light Trams

KMRL plans to operate light trams on the 6.2 km MG Road-Menaka-Park Avenue Road-Jos Junction-Thevara loop line corridor. KMRL held discussions with HESS Green Mobility, who were conducting the feasibility study.[121]

Finances

Funding and revenue

The original cost of the Kochi Metro project was,[122] but this later increased to .[123] [124] Taxes on the project will come to about which will be borne by the Kerala Government along with any escalations.[125] [126] The total estimated cost of land acquisition is, higher than the estimated as per the original plan.[78] [79] The total external borrowing requirement for the metro rail project is nearly .[127]

On 4 November 2013, the KMRL director board approved an offer from Canara Bank to provide it with a loan of .[128] KMRL also signed an agreement with French financial aid agency Agence Française de Développement (AFD) on 8 February 2014, to provide a loan for the project. The AFD loan is for a period of 25 years at the rate of 2% interest. The period is composed of a 20-year repayment period and a five-year grace period.[129] [130] The total debt component from Canara Bank and AFD amounted to INR 21.70 billion.[131] The centre and state governments contributed each as equity share for the project.[127] The line is expected to break even in 2023.[132]

KMRL signed a term loan agreement for Rs 1,170 crore with Canara Bank on 20 July 2014.[133] The Metro authority said that Canara Bank has taken this project as a special case with their request of interest reduction and provided relaxations on their conditions.[134]

In November 2016, the AFD agreed to provide a loan of EUR 175 million to the KMRL for the 11.2km (07miles) extension of the metro from JLN Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad. Although the AFD typically issues 20-year loans for urban infrastructure projects, it agreed to offer KMRL a longer tenure of 25 years at an interest rate of 1.35%. EUR 22 million will be utilized to carry out works related to non-motorised transportation at 20 stations, pedestrianization of MG Road, and junction development at Aluva, Edappally and Vyttila. The extension is estimated to cost .[111] [135]

Revenues

Apart from ticket sales, the KMRL generates revenue through advertising and leasing out station names. Advertisements are placed at metro stations, pillars along the viaduct, the interior/exterior of trains and the KMRL website. The metro system would also create links between metro stations and nearby commercial establishments if the establishments pay a fee.[136] Kochi Metro has also encouraged bidding for the naming rights of selected stations. The station near Lissie Hospital was earlier named after the hospital, after they won the naming rights for the station. It was then renamed to Town Hall Metro Station on 1 February 2020. Similarly, OPPO bagged the naming rights for Edapally and MG Road stations. Hence, the stations are named Edapally OPPO and MG Road OPPO respectively.[137]

The Indian Institute of Management, Bengaluru (IIMB) estimated that Kochi Metro could break even within 8 years of operation, assuming that the estimated ridership in the DPR is achieved.[138] Kochi Metro achieved its first-ever operating profit after six years of operation in the 2022-23 fiscal year, with a 145 per cent increase in revenue.[139]

Stations

KMRL has an elevated route spanning 25km (16miles) from Aluva to Tripunithura Terminal with 26 stations.[140] All platforms are long.[7] There are 17 sharp curves along the route; the sharpest curve has a radius of .[141]

Design

Egis India was responsible for the design of the stations such as floors and doors, and the Indian Institute of Architecture (Kochi Chapter) developed the designs of the roof and the interior of the stations.[142] The IIA presented the designs of 14 stations to the KMRL on 14–15 March 2014.[142]

The interiors and exteriors of the Kochi Metro stations are decorated with references to local culture. However, the traditional nālukettu architectural style was not structurally feasible.[143] According to a KMRL official, "It [stations] will be designed in such a way that it reflects the Kerala style of architecture with each of the 22 stations reflecting a regional theme. ... the stations will reflect an independent adaptation of the state's culture to give it a distinct look".[144] KMRL officials stated, "Our effort is to highlight the uniqueness of the state, especially to outsiders, but the station buildings won't be an exact replica of the Kerala model of architecture. The station designs are contemporary but inspired by socio-cultural themes. The kettuvalam or houseboat, for example, widely used in the backwaters of the state, is the theme of one of the stations, bearing descriptions of how it is made with a model exhibited alongside."[145]

The Western Ghats that run along most of the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border forms a common design theme at all the stations. The design of each individual station is a variation on this common theme. Aluva station's theme is Kerala's natural beauty and the station's interiors depict the Periyar and the other major rivers in the state. The walls of the Pulinchodu station feature flora and fauna of the Western Ghats. Kalamassery station depicts rare species of the mountain range.[146] The theme of CUSAT station is the state's maritime history, and that of Pathadipalam station is the fish of the Western Ghats. Spices of Kerala is the theme of the Edapally station, while the cultural and artistic heritage of Kerala forms the theme of the Changampuzha Park station. Palarivattom station features images of the flowers of the Western Ghats. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium station will depict the heritage of sports in the state. The monsoon season forms the theme of the Kaloor station. Endangered species and animals of Western Ghats are depicted in MG Road station, and the history and trade routes of Kochi are the theme of the Maharaja's College station.

Stations were designed to provide the maximum natural ventilation in passenger areas. All stations utilize LED lighting and have water efficient fittings in toilets. Some stations also provide facilities for rainwater harvesting.[147] A three-second tune composed by Bijibal will be played whenever train doors open or close at stations. The tune features traditional sounds of Kerala music featuring a chenda and ilathalam. KMRL chose to play the tune instead of the typical chime played on other metros in the country in order to give "Malayali flavour" to the metro system.[148]

List

See main article: List of Kochi Metro stations.

Main route

Stations name[149] Chainage (km) Distance from
previous station (km)
Platform type Alignment description[150]
English Malayalam
1 Malayalam: [[:ml:ആലുവ|ആലുവ]] 0.098 0 On 1000 metres curve
2 Malayalam: പുളിഞ്ചോട് 1.827 1.729 Side Curved
3 Malayalam: കമ്പനിപ്പടി 2.796 0.969 Side Straight
4 Malayalam: അമ്പാട്ടുകാവ് 3.779 0.984 Side Straight
5 Malayalam: മുട്ടം 4.716 0.937 Straight Curved
6 Malayalam: കളമശ്ശേരി 6.768 2.052 Side Straight
7 Malayalam: കൊച്ചിൻ യൂണിവേഴ്‌സിറ്റി 8.147 1.379 Side Straight
8 Malayalam: പത്തടിപ്പാലം 9.394 1.247 Side Straight
9 Malayalam: ഇടപ്പള്ളി 10.787 1.393 Side Straight
10 Malayalam: ചങ്ങമ്പുഴ പാർക്ക് 12.088 1.300 Side Straight
11 Malayalam: പാലാരിവട്ടം 13.096 1.008 Side Straight
12 Malayalam: ജെ. എൽ. എൻ സ്റ്റേഡിയം 14.217 1.121 Side Straight
13 Malayalam: കലൂർ 15.250 1.033 Side Straight
14 Malayalam: ടൗണ്‍ ഹാൾ 15.723 0.473 Side Curved
15 Malayalam: എം. ജി റോഡ്‌ 16.926 1.203 Side Straight
16 Malayalam: മഹാരാജാസ് കോളേജ് 18.100 1.173 Side Straight
17 Malayalam: എറണാകുളം സൗത്ത് 18.956 0.856Side Straight
18 Malayalam: കടവന്ത്ര 20.141 1.185 Side Straight
19 Malayalam: എളംകുളം 21.295 1.155 Side Straight
20 Malayalam: വൈറ്റില 22.734 1.439 Side Straight
21 Malayalam: തൈക്കൂടം 23.758 1.024 Side Straight
22 Malayalam: പേട്ട 24.941 1.183 Side Straight
23 Malayalam: വടക്കേക്കോട്ട Side Straight
24 Malayalam: എസ്.എൻ ജംഗ്ഷൻ Side Straight
25 Malayalam: തൃപ്പൂണിത്തുറ ടെർമിനൽ Side Straight

Infrastructure

Rolling stock

The Kochi Metro uses 65-metre long Metropolis train sets built and designed by Alstom.[151] [152] Coaches are to be tall, and each train of three coaches will be in length.[153] Each coach will have three wide doors, with automatic door closing and opening.[154] The platforms at each station will be long,[153] and will have half platform screen doors.[154] A total of 22 trains will be inducted for the first phase of operations of the metro.[155] The axle load is 15t for which the structures are to be designed. The capacity of each train is 975 passengers.[154] The trains are equipped with free WiFi service.

It was initially proposed to use maglev trains from South Korea for Kochi Metro.[156] It was later decided that Kochi Metro will run on standard gauge, with 3 coaches initially in each train, which can be extended to six coaches in future.[157] The width of each coach was initially fixed at in the DMRC's original DPR. However, KMRL wanted the metro to be as a medium metro corridor, as opposed to a light one, and the width was increased to .[158]

The DMRC floated an initial global tender in July 2013 for the manufacture and design of the coaches. Hyundai Rotem/BEML and Band Changchun Railway Vehicle Co Ltd[159] were the only bidders when the bids were opened in December 2013. The Chinese firm did not qualify, leaving only the HYUNDAI consortium in contention.[160] The contract was re-tendered on 10 March 2014,[161] and the coach width requirement was changed.[154] The DMRC opposed re-tendering, stating that it might delay the metro's opening, by up to a year or more. It also argued that coaches supplied by Hyundai Rotem were already in use on the Delhi Metro, as well as a few other metros.[162] According to Metro officials, "The delay will impact integrated trial of coaches in Aluva-Palarivattom route, initially scheduled for August 2015. With re-tendering process on, the proposed integration of coaches with tracks, third traction (sourcing power from the third rail) and signal systems can be done only by 2015-end or early 2016."[163] The DMRC held a pre-bid meeting in New Delhi on 2 April 2014 to allow interested firms to seek clarifications regarding technical specifications for the contract for the coaches.

The re-tendering process was won by French company Alstom.[164] The contract is for design, manufacturing, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of 25 standard track gauge trains with an option to supply 25 additional metro sets.[165]

Signalling

The Kochi Metro is the first metro system in India to use a communication-based train control (CBTC) system for signalling and telecommunication.[166] [167] [168] [169] In addition to train sets, the signalling contract was also won by Alstom and will use Alstom Urbalis 400 CBTC signalling.[170] In a CBTC system, the importance of signals is limited as "beacons" located along the corridor relay the precise position of trains to the operation control centre (OCC) at Muttom. The computerised OCC monitors and controls all train movements. CBTC also enables the use of driverless trains, although the Kochi Metro will initially use metro pilots during its operations.

Power

KMRL will acquire 20 MW of electricity, to operate the metro. The electricity will be supplied from the Kaloor substation of the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB).[171] The DMRC was in favour of supplying power through 25 kV overhead power lines. This was opposed by the KMRL who preferred to source power from the third rail laid alongside the metro track. It was decided to supply power via the 750 V DC third rail.[172] In January 2015, Alstom won the contract for manufacturing, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the 750 V third-rail traction electrification and auxiliary substations (ASS) and associated SCADA systems.[173] Under this contract, Alstom is also in charge of the supply, installation, testing and commissioning of 110 kV cabling incoming from the grid (incl. civil works), 2x GIS3; 110 kV Intake Power Substations and their associated Power Transformers 110 kV/33 kV, and 33 kV/415 V Auxiliary Transformers.[174]

In November 2016, KMRL began installing solar panels on the rooftops of 22 stations and the buildings at the Muttom yard. The project was contracted to Hero Solar Energy (P) Ltd. The contract is based on the Renewable Energy Service Company (RESCO) model, under which Hero will invest the entire to install the panels and operate the solar power station for a period of 25 years. Under the terms of the power purchase agreement, Hero will sell the generated power to KMRL at a rate of per unit. In March 2017, KMRL unveiled a plan to install solar panels on 9 acres of land available at the Muttom yard. The Kochi Metro owns a 52.3-acre plot in Muttom, of which 31.1 acres is required for the metro depot.[175] Installation of a 2.3 MW solar plant at the Muttom depot was completed in May 2017.[176]

Parking

KMRL assigned Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) to conduct a feasibility study on incorporating parking spaces on the metro rail corridor. The study was focused on understanding the ridership of all 22 stations including two terminal stations and assessing the possible number of two and four-wheelers, which would require parking in the Aluva- Pettah Metro Rail corridor. As part of the study, the School of Management Studies (SMS) also prepared the layout for parking with traffic circulation plan for each station. The SMS submitted the report on 10 August 2012.[177] A preliminary report was submitted in June 2012. CUSAT was given the task, as the report submitted by DMRC did not have specifications regarding the parking facilities.[178] The DMRC's DPR mentioned parking lots only at the 2 terminal stations – Aluva and Pettah.[179] CUSAT's detailed study was submitted on 10 August 2012. The study proposed parking lots adjacent to all stations with some having multi-level parking. In some stations, parking facilities connected to the station via walkways will be located away from the station due to lack of available land.[180] KMRL will consider introducing shuttle services between parking lots and stations if the distance is long. SMS will work out the requirement of land that has to be acquired for this. KMRL says parking facilities will prevent traffic congestion and integrate personal transport system with mass rapid transit systems.[181]

Skywalks

KMRL has built skywalks connecting metro stations & nearby landmarks. At present there are two skywalks; one connecting Edapally station and LuLu Mall and the other connecting MG Road station and Chennai Silks. KMRL are also planning to build skywalks connecting Ernakulam South station to Ernakulam Junction railway station and Vytilla Station to Vyttila Mobility Hub, once Phase 1 is completed.

Operations

Open Data

In 16, March 2018 KMRL has launched Kochi Open Data as their part of their Open Data Initiative. By this Kochi Metro become the first metro agency in the country to adopt an open-data approach to improve access to its services in the Kochi city. The information on scheduled stops, routes and fares have been converted into the universally accepted General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) and has been allowed to developers, entrepreneurs, data analysts to download from the KMRL website.[182]

Fare collection

The minimum fare on the Kochi Metro is and the maximum is . The metro line is split into 6 fare zones named F1, F2, F3, F4, F5 and F6, corresponding to a distance that is a multiple of five. The minimum fare of 10 applies for the first 2 km, with rates increasing by 10 for subsequent fare zone. Metro fares are slightly higher than the fare for Volvo city bus services in Kochi.[136] [183]

The metro system will use the Kochi One pre-paid EMV chip smart card, which can also be used on other modes of public transport in the city, including KSRTC and private buses, ferries operated by the SWTD, and the proposed air-conditioned ferries to be operated by the KMRL.[184]

From now on, passengers using feeder autorickshaws from Kochi metro stations can pay for their rides with debit or credit cards, various UPI apps, and the Kochi-1 card.[185]

Frequency

The metro operates with a headway of 7 minutes. Train service starts at 6:00 a.m. and continues till 10:00 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the service starts at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 10:00 p.m.

Management

KMRL signed an agreement with Kudumbashree, a women's self-help group, on 11 December 2016 to manage the metro station premises including ticketing, customer relations, housekeeping, parking management and running the canteens.[186] [187] [188] KMRL stated that it would also hire transgender employees along with Kudumbashree.[189] [190] [191]

Boat service

A boat service from Vyttila to Kakkanad, operated by the Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD) was launched on 19 November 2013.[192] It is integrated with the metro and was used for diverting traffic during construction of the metro. The boats were manufactured by Steel Industries Kerala Ltd, Kannur (part of Steel Authority of India Ltd). The boats complete the 9km (06miles)[193] Vyttila-Kakkanad journey in approximately 25 minutes.[194]

In February 2017, the Kerala Government announced a plan for Kochi Water Metro service spanning 16 routes in Kochi. The water metro system started operation on 26 April 2023.[195]

Controversy

In January 2012, in response to the Kerala government's decision to have the Kochi Metro project go through a global tender, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, of the opposition party the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)), accused Chief Minister Oommen Chandy of trying to oust the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).[196]

In early 2014, E. Sreedharan criticised Kochi Metro Railway Limited (KMRL) for its involvement in the re-tender for the procurement of coaches for the project, saying that this would result in a delay of six or seven months. Arayadan Muhammed, Minister for Power and Transport of Kerala, responded that KMRL called for the tender for the sake of transparency.[197] In the earlier tender that the DMRC had floated, the sole bidder was Hyundai. The second tender was won by Alstom, which placed a lower bid.[198]

In Popular Culture

Plenty of Malayalam movies are shot inside Kochi Metro some of them are Njan Prakashan, Anjaam Paathira, Mayaanadhi and Vikruthi which is based on real incident happened inside metro.[199]

See also

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Kerala govt gives nod for Kochi Metro phase II extension. Malayala Manorama. 3 October 2017.
  2. News: SIA for metro's Kakkanad extension to begin soon. The Hindu. 21 November 2016 . 11 December 2016. Paul . John L. .
  3. News: KMRL shoots down costly UMTC proposal. The Times of India. 12 January 2018 . 12 January 2018.
  4. News: Average monthly ridership 25 lakh in 2023, Kochi Metro guns for more. 10 January 2024. The New Indian Express. 10 January 2024.
  5. News: Average monthly ridership 25 lakh in 2023, Kochi Metro guns for more. 10 January 2024. The New Indian Express. 10 January 2024.
  6. Web site: Contact – Kochi Metro Rail Ltd.. Kochi Metro Rail Ltd.. 24 July 2016.
  7. News: Kochi Metro trains to have 3 coaches to carry 1,000 passengers . NDTV . . 24 May 2013.
  8. News: January 2018 Metro Rail Projects in India – Quick Snapshot proposal. 12 January 2018.
  9. News: KMRL shoots down costly UMTC proposal. The Times of India. 12 January 2018 . 12 January 2018.
  10. Web site: Metro reaches Kochi . 4 July 2012 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20120715014717/http://www.ianslive.in/news/Metro_reaches_Kochi-387644/LatestNews/31 . 15 July 2012 .
  11. DMRC issues tender for Kochi metro trains | . . 23 July 2013 . 28 September 2013.
  12. News: Kochi Metro creates national record . . 14 March 2017 . 30 July 2017.
  13. News: Kochi Metro a 'futuristic infrastructure that will contribute to India's growth': What PM Modi said at inauguration . . 17 June 2017 . 30 July 2017.
  14. News: All you need to know about Kochi Metro . . 17 June 2017 . 30 July 2017.
  15. Web site: PM Modi to inaugurate Kochi Metro on June 17. mathrubhumi.com. 30 May 2017 . Mathrubhumi. 30 May 2017.
  16. Web site: Kochi Metro Phase 1 Now Complete, PM Modi Inaugurates Thripunithura Terminal Station . 2024-03-09 . . 6 March 2024 . en-US.
  17. Web site: ലേഖകൻ . മാധ്യമം . കൊച്ചി മെട്രോ കാക്കനാട്ടേക്ക്; നിർമാണം ഡിസംബറിൽ ആരംഭിക്കും . 10 September 2023 . Madhyamam . 2 September 2023 . en.
  18. News: Many firsts for Kochi metro, vertical gardens, open loop card and more . The Hindu . 17 June 2017 . 17 June 2017 . Kochi, India.
  19. News: Facility management centre gets SKOCH award . The New Indian Express . 3 October 2018 . 4 October 2018.
  20. News: Many firsts for Kochi Metro: vertical gardens, open-loop cards and more . 8 July 2017 . The Hindu. Praveen . M. p. . Paul . John L. .
  21. News: 17 June 2017 . Kochi One card and Kochi One mobile application launched . The Times of India . 10 September 2023 . 0971-8257.
  22. Web site: Bureau . BL Kochi . 2024-05-10 . Google ties up with Kochi Metro for digital ticketing . 2024-05-20 . BusinessLine . en.
  23. News: Kochi Metro zooms past Chennai, Nagpur to emerge best . . 31 October 2017 . 3 November 2017.
  24. Web site: Narendra Modi flags off Kochi Metro, takes maiden ride . 17 June 2017 . . 22 July 2017.
  25. Web site: Kochi Metro to be inaugurated by PM Modi on Saturday: Interesting facts about Kerala's first metro service . Darade . Pooja . 16 June 2017 . India.com . 16 June 2017 . https://web.archive.org/web/20170616094323/http://www.india.com/news/india/narendra-modi-to-inaugurate-kochi-metro-on-saturday-here-are-interesting-details-about-keralas-first-metro-service-2229937/ . 16 June 2017.
  26. News: 22 July 1999 . Kochi Metro Railway: RITES will conduct study. . Kerala . 16 June 2017.
  27. Web site: Details of the Studies/Detailed Project Report/Comprehensive mobility planundertaken under the scheme of UT planning . https://web.archive.org/web/20170616091821/http://www.moud.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/Complted%20n%20current%20study.pdf . 16 June 2017 . 16 June 2017 . Ministry of Urban Development.
  28. News: Sudhi . K.S. . 13 July 2003 . Konkan Railway misleading Kerala on sky bus project . Kerala . https://web.archive.org/web/20170616065908/http://www.thehindu.com/2003/07/14/stories/2003071404020700.htm . 16 June 2017 . dead . . 16 June 2017.
  29. News: Delhi Metro Rail to execute Kochi project. Business Standard India. 9 January 2013. Joseph. George.
  30. Web site: Rs 3000 crore Kochi Metro rail project approved. 2 January 2008.
  31. News: Heading for a dead-end . https://web.archive.org/web/20131023133605/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article164818.ece . dead . 23 October 2013 . The New Indian Express . 6 July 2010 . 7 January 2012.
  32. Web site: Metro dreams get a start . https://web.archive.org/web/20130609164822/http://deccanchronicle.com/130608/news-current-affairs/article/metro-dreams-get-start . dead . 9 June 2013 . Deccan Chronicle. 8 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  33. News: Six years on, Kochi Metro to see faster progress now . Business Standard. 25 October 2011 . 7 February 2014. Joseph . George .
  34. News: Nod for Metro project's revised proposal . https://web.archive.org/web/20130707122058/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-16/kochi/30286104_1_kochi-metro-chennai-metro-chennai-model . dead . 7 July 2013 . . 16 October 2011.
  35. News: Kochi Metro Rail gets Public Investment Board's approval . The Economic Times. 1 January 1970 . 23 March 2012.
  36. Web site: Kochi Metro gets nod from public Investment: Board . News.webindia123.com . 23 March 2012.
  37. Web site: DMRC to carry out Kochi Metro work . https://web.archive.org/web/20141031124953/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/dmrc-to-carry-out-kochi-metro-work/243834-60-116.html . dead . 31 October 2014 . CNN IBN . 29 March 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  38. News: It's official: DMRC to drive Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20131001162459/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-29/thiruvananthapuram/31254386_1_dmrc-board-meeting-cabinet-meeting . dead . 1 October 2013 . . 29 March 2012.
  39. News: Centre nod for Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20130506085931/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-07-04/kochi/32536839_1_petta-centre-nod-land-acquisition. dead. 6 May 2013. . 4 July 2012.
  40. Web site: Tom Jose shunted out of Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20120820011023/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/tom-jose-shunted-out-of-kochi-metro/282531-60-116.html . dead . 20 August 2012 . CNN IBN . 17 August 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  41. News: Kochi Metro project could have been implemented without DMRC . Business Standard. 16 August 2012 . 27 June 2013. Press Trust of India .
  42. News: Board of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd reconstituted . Business Standard. 14 August 2012 . 27 June 2013. Press Trust of India .
  43. News: AFD team to visit Kochi . The Hindu. 12 April 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  44. Web site: Kochi Metro: French funding to materialise by December . https://web.archive.org/web/20131002051338/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Kochi-Metro-French-funding-to-materialise-by-December/2013/04/27/article1563932.ece . dead . 2 October 2013 . The New Indian Express . 27 April 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  45. News: 'Win-win pact' for Kochi metro . The Hindu. 5 April 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  46. News: Special Correspondent . Cabinet nod for 22 metro stations in Kochi . The Hindu. 20 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  47. Web site: Special Correspondent . State firm on DMRC implementing Kochi metro . The Hindu. 16 October 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  48. Web site: 17 June 2017 . Narendra Modi flags off Kochi Metro, takes maiden ride .
  49. News: North bridge, a concrete testimony to efficiency . The Hindu. 29 December 2013 . 7 February 2014.
  50. Web site: Rs 48.88 crore earmarked for metro land acquisition . https://web.archive.org/web/20130314005645/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article1496542.ece . dead . 14 March 2013 . The New Indian Express . 11 March 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  51. Web site: Land acquisition major issue . https://web.archive.org/web/20130414012823/http://deccanchronicle.com/130109/news-current-affairs/article/land-acquisition-major-issue . dead . 14 April 2013 . Deccan Chronicle. 9 January 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  52. Web site: Delhi focus only on Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20130219064758/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130127/news-current-affairs/article/delhi-focus-only-kochi-metro . dead . 19 February 2013 . Deccan Chronicle. 27 January 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  53. https://web.archive.org/web/20120114104754/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/winds-of-change-over-kochi/215603-60-122.html Winds of change over Kochi – southindia – Kochi – ibnlive
  54. News: Cities / Kochi : Rs.15 crore handed over to DMRC . The Hindu. 4 March 2012 . 10 March 2012 . Chennai, India.
  55. News: Kochi Metro Rail hands over rs 15 crore to DMRC . The Economic Times. 3 March 2012 . 10 March 2012.
  56. Web site: Kochi Metro Rail hands over rs 15 crore to DMRC, IBN Live News . https://web.archive.org/web/20120306070404/http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/kochi-metro-rail-hands-over-rs-15-crore-to-dmrc/970574.html . dead . 6 March 2012 . CNN IBN . 3 March 2012 . 10 March 2012.
  57. News: Kochi Bureau . Cities / Kochi : Kochi metro on fast track . The Hindu . 20 March 2012. 23 March 2012 . Chennai, India.
  58. Web site: Agreement for Rs 108-crore flyover at Edappally inked. 23 July 2013. Deccan Chronicle. https://web.archive.org/web/20130906213922/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130723/news-current-affairs/article/agreement-rs-108-crore-flyover-edappally-inked. 6 September 2013. dead. 28 September 2013.
  59. Web site: Edapally flyover work on hold . Deccan Chronicle. 12 January 2014 . 7 February 2014.
  60. News: Flyover opened but all is not well at Edappally. Paul. John L.. 16 September 2016. The Hindu. Kochi. 21 January 2018.
  61. http://www.manoramaonline.com/news/just-in/2017/05/19/kochi-metro-inauguration-kmrl.html Kochi Metro Inauguration
  62. News: Kerala HC criticises Kochi Corporation over Pachalam overbridge. The Hindu. 22 February 2014.
  63. News: Corporation gives in principle approval for Pachalam ROB – Times of India. 11 February 2014. The Times of India. 21 January 2018. Kochi.
  64. News: Govt OKs Pachalam ROB | Kochi News – Times of India. The Times of India. 27 February 2014 .
  65. News: Kochi Corporation okays Pachalam ROB. 2 February 2011. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. Kochi. en-IN. 0971-751X.
  66. Web site: Stone Laid for Pachalam Railway Overbridge. https://archive.today/20140306102257/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Stone-Laid-for-Pachalam-Railway-Overbridge/2014/03/05/article2090526.ece%23.Uxg96UDDDIU. dead. 6 March 2014.
  67. News: Pachalam overbridge to be up in six months. 3 March 2014. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. Kochi. en-IN. 0971-751X.
  68. News: City needs decentralised hubs, says transportation expert. The Hindu. 15 February 2012.
  69. News: Metro station at Vyttila mobility hub on the cards. 29 February 2012. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. Chennai.
  70. Web site: Kochi Metro 'needs more land than projected'. The Hindu Business Line . 27 June 2013.
  71. News: Kochi metro will require 40.4 hectare land . Business Standard. 19 November 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  72. News: Kochi metro requires eight more hectares . The Hindu. 16 November 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  73. News: TNN . KMRL reveals final alignment of Kochi Metro. https://web.archive.org/web/20130613184229/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-16/kochi/35155751_1_kmrl-elias-george-south-railway-station . dead . 13 June 2013 . 16 November 2012 . . 27 June 2013.
  74. News: Revenue survey will have final say on metro land . The Hindu. 16 November 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  75. News: John L. Paul . Kochi Metro Rail: No clarity on how much land is needed . The Hindu. 17 October 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  76. News: TNN . Panel approves land value fixed for Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20131015191242/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-10-16/kochi/34497869_1_land-value-land-price-mohandas-pillai . dead . 15 October 2013 . 16 October 2012 . . 27 June 2013.
  77. News: Rates finalised for Kochi land acquisition . The Hindu. 16 October 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  78. Web site: Archived copy . 5 December 2012 . https://web.archive.org/web/20180122001027/http://www.asianage.com/kochi/jica-team-hold-talks-visit-kochi-metro-sites-169 . 22 January 2018 . dead .
  79. News: TNN . Kochi Metro land cost revised to 1,110 crore . https://web.archive.org/web/20130613203233/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-11-29/kochi/35434692_1_kochi-metro-rail-kmrl-south-railway-station . dead . 13 June 2013 . 29 November 2012 . . 27 June 2013.
  80. News: Land for Kochi metro station handed over. The Hindu. 14 February 2014.
  81. Web site: GCDA Hands over 30 Cents for Kochi Metro. https://web.archive.org/web/20140214081520/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/GCDA-Hands-Over-30-Cents-for-Kochi-Metro/2014/02/14/article2055755.ece#.UxhnLkDDDIU. dead. 14 February 2014.
  82. News: Kochi metro operations' control centre to be established at Muttom. The Hindu. 11 March 2014. Paul. John L..
  83. Web site: The Pioneer . Dailypioneer.com . 1 January 1970 . 27 June 2013.
  84. Web site: V. Sajeev Kumar . More cities may come under Metro rail ambit. The Hindu Business Line . 13 September 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  85. Web site: PM inaugurates Kochi Metro project . Zeenews . 13 September 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  86. Web site: Kochi Metro work to begin on June 7. https://web.archive.org/web/20130929021515/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-05-13/kochi/39227419_1_kochi-metro-rail-limited-metro-stations-oommen-chandy . dead . 29 September 2013 . 13 May 2013 . . 27 June 2013.
  87. Web site: Metro Rail work to kickstart in style . https://web.archive.org/web/20130614002407/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Metro-Rail-work-to-kickstart-in-style/2013/05/21/article1599161.ece . dead . 14 June 2013 . The New Indian Express . 21 May 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  88. News: TNN . Kochi Metro work to begin on Friday. https://web.archive.org/web/20130929021517/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-06-04/kochi/39739821_1_kochi-metro-sudhir-krishna-changampuzha-park . dead . 29 September 2013 . 4 June 2013 . . 27 June 2013.
  89. Web site: Indian state begins work on metro rail . gulftoday.ae . 8 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  90. News: TNN . Your Metro ride 1,094 days away. https://web.archive.org/web/20130929021511/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-06-08/kochi/39833112_1_kochi-metro-rail-ltd-principal-adviser-e-sreedharan-edappally . dead . 29 September 2013 . 8 June 2013 . . 27 June 2013.
  91. Web site: Green signal awaited for metro extensions . The Hindu. 8 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  92. Web site: Piling for 1st Metro station begins . https://web.archive.org/web/20131023133631/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Piling-for-1st-Metro-station-begins/2013/10/01/article1812238.ece . dead . 23 October 2013 . The New Indian Express . 1 October 2013 . 7 February 2014.
  93. Web site: Work on metro's first station to begin at Kaloor from Monday . The Hindu. 23 September 2013 . 28 September 2013.
  94. Web site: Alexander . Princy . Piling work for first metro station set to begin . https://web.archive.org/web/20130925143421/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Piling-work-for-first-metro-station-set-to-begin/2013/09/23/article1798064.ece . dead . 25 September 2013 . The New Indian Express . 23 September 2013 . 28 September 2013.
  95. Web site: No casting yard for DMRC, metro works may derail . https://web.archive.org/web/20131003191137/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130617/news-current-affairs/article/no-casting-yard-dmrc-metro-works-may-derail . dead . 3 October 2013 . Deccan Chronicle. 17 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  96. Web site: Metro work: Steps in place to curb traffic . https://web.archive.org/web/20131002045034/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Metro-work-Steps-in-place-to-curb-traffic/2013/06/01/article1615210.ece . dead . 2 October 2013 . The New Indian Express . 1 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  97. Web site: Traffic regulation plan for metro works in final stage . The Hindu. 21 June 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  98. Web site: Agreement to be signed soon: KMRL . The Hindu. 5 May 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  99. Web site: Alternative routes planned to divert traffic during Kochi metro rail work . The Hindu. 17 May 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  100. Web site: First U-shaped Concrete Girder of Metro Rail Project Installed in Aluva. https://web.archive.org/web/20140812194427/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/First-U-shaped-Concrete-Girder-of-Metro-Rail-Project-Installed-in-Aluva/2014/07/13/article2328103.ece. dead. 12 August 2014.
  101. Web site: Finally, a Kochi dream gets wheels. thehindu.com. 24 January 2016. 14 August 2023.
  102. Web site: Kochi metro begins test running.
  103. Web site: Kochi metro gets RDSO 'speed certificate'. The New Indian Express. 9 December 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  104. News: Staff Reporter. Certified: Metro can cruise at 80 kmph. The Hindu. 8 December 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  105. http://specials.manoramaonline.com/Onmanorama/2017/kochi-metro/index.html Kochi Metro
  106. News: Kochi Metro kicks off service to Thaikkudam . . 3 September 2019 . 3 September 2019.
  107. News: Cabinet nod for extension of Kochi Metro project . The Hindu . 6 March 2014 .
  108. Web site: Kochi metro up to Tripunithura . The Hindu. 28 January 2014 . 7 February 2014.
  109. Web site: Metro: Tripunithura in Phase I . https://web.archive.org/web/20140131081034/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Metro-Tripunithura-in-Phase-I/2014/01/28/article2023622.ece#.UvS6P0DDDIU . dead . 31 January 2014 . The New Indian Express . 28 January 2014 . 7 February 2014.
  110. News: SIA for metro's Kakkanad extension to begin soon. The Hindu. 21 November 2016 . 11 December 2016. Paul . John L. .
  111. Web site: AFD to release Rs. 1350 crore for Kochi metro rail extension. The New Indian Express. 15 November 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  112. News: Land acquisition process expedited to meet targets – Times of India. The Times of India. 10 March 2017 . 10 March 2017.
  113. News: Staff Reporter. Kochi metro Phase IIgets Cabinet clearance. The Hindu. 17 May 2017 . 18 May 2017.
  114. Web site: Cabinet shows green signal for Kochi Metro Phase-II. The New Indian Express. 18 May 2017 . 18 May 2017.
  115. News: Bureau . The Hindu . 31 August 2022 . PM Modi to launch Kochi Metro extension, redevelopment of 3 railway stations on September 1 . en-IN . The Hindu . 10 September 2023 . 0971-751X.
  116. Web site: Kerala govt approves funding for Kochi Metro Phase-II expansion . 2023-12-09 . www.constructionworld.in . en.
  117. Web site: Kochi Metro phase 2 construction likely to begin by December . 10 September 2023 . The New Indian Express. 2 September 2023 .
  118. Web site: Kaloor Stadium to Kakkanad: Second phase of Kochi Metro construction commences . 11 July 2024 . Mathrubhumi English. 3 July 2024 .
  119. News: Call for Metro connectivity to airport gains momentum – Times of India. The Times of India. 30 March 2017 . 30 March 2017.
  120. Web site: Desk . M. V. . 2023-12-05 . കൊച്ചി മെട്രൊയുടെ വരവും കാത്ത് അങ്കമാലി . 2023-12-09 . Metro Vaartha . ml.
  121. News: Bureau . The Hindu . 2024-04-10 . Light trams in Kochi metro's M.G. Road-Menaka-Thevara loop line: KMRL to conduct feasibility study . 2024-04-22 . The Hindu . en-IN . 0971-751X.
  122. News: Union Cabinet nod for Rs 5,146 crore Kochi Metro expected soon: Official . The Times of India . 21 December 2011.
  123. Web site: RITES to study feasibility . https://web.archive.org/web/20130708085727/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130706/news-current-affairs/article/rites-study-feasibility . dead . 8 July 2013 . Deccan Chronicle. 6 July 2013 . 28 September 2013.
  124. Web site: Our Bureau . Feasibility study for Kochi Metro expansion okayed | Business Line . Thehindubusinessline.com . 5 July 2013 . 28 September 2013.
  125. Web site: Kochi metro rail project approved . Newstrackindia.com . 4 July 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  126. News: Will ask Centre for more funds for Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20130929021513/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-05-01/kochi/31526405_1_kochi-metro-global-tenders-dmrc . dead . 29 September 2013 . . 1 May 2012.
  127. Web site: Government Jacks up Aid for Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20131205061455/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Government-Jacks-up-Aid-for-Kochi-Metro/2013/12/05/article1927896.ece . dead . 5 December 2013 . The New Indian Express . 5 December 2013 . 7 February 2014.
  128. Web site: Credit line opened for Kochi Metro . The Hindu. 5 November 2013 . 7 February 2014.
  129. News: Kochi metro now links Thripunithura in Phase I . Business Standard. 28 January 2014 . 7 February 2014.
  130. News: KMRL to sign Rs. 1,500-crore loan agreement with French agency . The Hindu . 28 January 2014 .
  131. Web site: Kochi Metro Annual Report 2013-14. Kochi Metro. 21 June 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20160823023555/https://kochimetro.org/annual-reports/. 23 August 2016. dead.
  132. News: KMRL scouts for revenue sources for metro . The Hindu . 18 January 2014 . Paul . John L. .
  133. Web site: Business News Today: Read Latest Business news, India Business News Live, Share Market & Economy News.
  134. Web site: Latest news – Market news, Live business news updates, Business news today.
  135. News: French agency to extend 175 mn EUR loan for Kochi metro. Business Standard India. 11 December 2016. 14 November 2016. Press Trust of India.
  136. News: Paul. John L.. Minimum fare of Kochi Metro fixed at Rs. 10; maximum is Rs. 60Rates suggested by IIM, based on ridership projection in DPR. 11 December 2016. The Hindu. 30 November 2016 .
  137. Web site: OPPO joins hands with Kochi Metro, the first biggest ongoing project in Kerala. 25 July 2017. OPPO.
  138. News: Paul. John L.. Metro to break even in 8 years: IIM study. 11 December 2016. The Hindu. 3 December 2016 .
  139. Web site: With revenue increase of 145%, Kochi Metro records profit for the first time . 2023-09-25 . OnManorama.
  140. Web site: Metro Stations . Kochimetro.org . 27 June 2013.
  141. News: TNN . For starters, you can catch a Metro every 5 minutes . https://web.archive.org/web/20131015193642/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-05-25/kochi/39520823_1_kochi-metro-rail-ltd-kmrl-metro-agency . dead . 15 October 2013 . 25 May 2013 . . 27 June 2013.
  142. News: 14 station designs submitted to Kochi Metro, Delhi Metro for approval | Kochi News – Times of India. The Times of India. 18 March 2014 .
  143. Web site: Slice of local culture in metro stations. https://web.archive.org/web/20130822090650/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Slice-of-local-culture-in-metro-stations/2013/07/20/article1692846.ece. dead. 22 August 2013.
  144. Web site: Meeting to finalize design of Kochi Metro Rail stations . 20 August 2013 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20131003191150/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130812/news-current-affairs/article/meeting-finalize-design-kochi-metro-rail-stations . 3 October 2013 .
  145. Web site: Metro stations to wear heritage | the Asian Age . www.asianage.com . 25 January 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20140102200318/http://www.asianage.com/india/metro-stations-wear-heritage-495 . 2 January 2014 . dead.
  146. http://www.manoramaonline.com/homestyle/first-shot/2017/05/19/kochi-metro-inauguration-architecture-design-inside-view.html Kochi Metro Inside Views
  147. timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kochi/kmrl-plans-to-generate-3mw-solar-power-at-muttom-yard/articleshow/57581960.cms
  148. Web site: Kochi's metro stations to flaunt a blend of Kerala culture. The New Indian Express. 21 March 2017 . 21 March 2017.
  149. Web site: Government of Kerala – Kochi Metro Rail Project. 14 August 2023.
  150. Web site: Detailed Project Report : Kochi Metro Project Alwaye – Petta Corridor. Kochi Metro. 16 November 2013. Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. August 2011.
  151. Web site: Alstom's new Metropolis train set for Kochi Metro. The Economic Times. 21 January 2018.
  152. Web site: Alstom's Metropolis for Kochi – design unveiled for the first time. www.alstom.com. 4 July 2017.
  153. Web site: Metro train to ply every 5 minutes, carry 1,000 persons . The Hindu. 25 May 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  154. News: Low number of bidders not to affect quality and safety of Kochi Metro. Paul. John L.. 4 December 2013. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. en-IN. 0971-751X.
  155. Web site: Metro rail: 22 trains in the first phase . https://web.archive.org/web/20130608153848/http://newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/Metro-rail-22-trains-in-the-first-phase/2013/05/25/article1605069.ece . dead . 8 June 2013 . The New Indian Express . 25 May 2013 . 27 June 2013.
  156. News: Magnetic levitation technology for Kochi metro rail mooted . Chennai, India . The Hindu . 17 November 2011.
  157. News: No Maglev tech for Kochi Metro . https://web.archive.org/web/20130613181828/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-02-15/kochi/31062451_1_kochi-metro-pib-union-cabinet . dead . 13 June 2013 . 15 February 2012 . . 10 March 2012.
  158. Web site: Kochi Metro tender runs into controversy over coach width – Times of India . articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com . 25 January 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20131015162119/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-12/kochi/42967447_1_kochi-metro-rail-ltd-kmrl-rapid-metro . 15 October 2013 . dead.
  159. Web site: Pre-bid meeting for Kochi metro coaches held. 3 April 2014. The Hindu. Kochi. 21 January 2018.
  160. Web site: Coach re-tender unlikely to affect allied metro works in Kochi. 17 March 2014. The Hindu. Kochi. 21 January 2018.
  161. News: DMRC to meet prospective coach suppliers for Kochi Metro today . The Hindu . 2 April 2014 .
  162. News: DMRC to meet prospective coach suppliers for Kochi Metro today. Staff Reporter. 2 April 2014. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. en-IN. 0971-751X.
  163. News: Coach re-tender unlikely to affect allied metro works in Kochi . The Hindu . 17 March 2014 .
  164. News: Kochi metro: French firm bags bid. Paul. John L.. 12 August 2014. The Hindu. 21 January 2018. Kochi.
  165. Web site: Alstom to supply the city of Kochi with 25 Metropolis train sets. www.alstom.com. 4 July 2017.
  166. Web site: India's first CBTC metro system to be ready in March. Paul. John L.. 20 February 2017. The Hindu. Kochi. 20 January 2018.
  167. Web site: Kochi Metro gets on track with hi-tech CBTC system. 22 May 2017. The Indian Express. New Delhi. 20 January 2018.
  168. Web site: Metro signalling trial on track, says Sreedharan. 11 February 2017. The New Indian Express. Kochi. 20 January 2018.
  169. Web site: Themed stations, women loco pilots, and other fun facts about Kochi Metro Rail. 20 May 2017. The News Minute. 20 January 2018.
  170. Web site: Alstom to deliver signalling and electrification solutions for India's Kochi Metro Rail. M. Samseer. 22 January 2015. Railway Technology. 21 January 2018.
  171. Web site: KMRL to seek 20MW from KSEB for metro. Giri. Greeshma Gopal. 18 September 2012. The Times of India. Kochi. 21 January 2018.
  172. Web site: DMRC to meet prospective coach suppliers for Kochi Metro today. 2 April 2014. The Hindu. Kochi. 21 January 2018.
  173. Web site: Alstom to provide signalling, telecom and electrification for the new Kochi metro line. 22 January 2015. Alstom. 21 January 2018.
  174. Web site: Alstom secures power supply contract of Kochi metro, making it the main supplier for the line. www.alstom.com. 4 July 2017.
  175. News: KMRL plans to generate 3MW solar power at Muttom yard – Times of India. The Times of India. 11 March 2017 . 11 March 2017.
  176. News: Solar panel installation completed at Kochi Metro stations – Times of India. The Times of India. 16 May 2017 . 18 May 2017.
  177. News: Cities / Report on metro parking submitted . The Hindu. 11 August 2012 . Kochi, India.
  178. News: Cities / Kochi : Parking in metro stations: Cusat school to do feasibility study . The Hindu. 11 March 2012 . 23 March 2012 . Chennai, India.
  179. News: Cities / Kochi : Kochi metro stations may get multi-tier parking lots . The Hindu. 13 November 2012 . 14 November 2012.
  180. Web site: Report on metro parking submitted . The Hindu. 11 August 2012 . 27 June 2013.
  181. News: Cusat to help prepare report for Kochi Metro. https://web.archive.org/web/20131015193614/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-10/kochi/31142669_1_parking-facilities-cusat-parking-spaces . dead . 15 October 2013 . 1 January 1970 . . 10 March 2012.
  182. Web site: Kochi Metro adopts open data system to improve access to its services. The New Indian Express. 12 March 2018 . 5 April 2018.
  183. Web site: Start Kochi Metro journey for Rs 10, keep Rs 60 handy for max distance. The New Indian Express. December 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  184. News: Paul. John L.. Kochi-One card to be launched with Metro. The Hindu. 26 March 2017 . 26 March 2017.
  185. News: Bureau . The Hindu . 2024-05-13 . Digital payment system launched in Kochi metro's feeder autorickshaws . 2024-05-20 . The Hindu . en-IN . 0971-751X.
  186. News: KMRL, Kudumbashree to sign MoU. The Times of India. 11 December 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  187. Web site: KMRL signs MoU with Kudumbasree. Press Trust of India. 11 December 2016.
  188. News: Reporter. JohnStaff. KMRL-Kudumbasree pact for metro station upkeep today. The Hindu. 10 December 2016 . 11 December 2016.
  189. Web site: 6 Things that Make Kochi Metro Unique Kochi Metro Blog. Kochi Metro. 28 March 2017. 11 November 2016.
  190. Web site: Jobs for Transgenders in Kochi Metro and Pensions for Those above 60 Years in Kerala. The Better India. 28 March 2017. 9 July 2016.
  191. Web site: Kerala: Kochi Metro To Offer Jobs to Transgenders – FSOG. fiftyshadesofgay.co.in. 28 March 2017.
  192. Web site: Vyttila-Kakkanad boat service to set sail on November 19 . https://web.archive.org/web/20131106123636/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Vyttila-Kakkanad-boat-service-to-set-sail-on-November-19/2013/11/05/article1872337.ece . dead . 6 November 2013 .
  193. Web site: Boat service from Vyttila next month . https://web.archive.org/web/20131002043332/http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/Boat-service-from-Vyttila-next-month/2013/08/05/article1718229.ece . dead . 2 October 2013 .
  194. Web site: First Metro feeder in September . 16 August 2013 . dead . https://web.archive.org/web/20131003190907/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130805/news-current-affairs/article/first-metro-feeder-september . 3 October 2013 .
  195. Web site: Kochi Water Metro Phase I to be ready by 2018–19 . 28 February 2017 .
  196. News: Row breaks out over Kochi Metro Rail project. Indo-Asian News Service. NDTV. 3 January 2012. 19 June 2015. 30 October 2015. https://web.archive.org/web/20151030212717/http://www.ndtv.com/kerala-news/row-breaks-out-over-kochi-metro-rail-project-570818. live.
  197. News: Kochi metro to be delayed for another seven months . . 2014 . 19 June 2016 . 19 June 2016 . https://archive.today/20160619161044/http://mathrubhuminews.in/ee/ReadMore/6426/kochi-metro-to-be-delayed-for-another-seven-months/E . live.
  198. News: Kochi metro: French firm bags bid. The Hindu. Paul. John L.. The Hindu Group.
  199. News: Metro station lends space for film shoot. The Hindu. 26 February 2018 .