37 stations in 42-kilometre route; Kerala's second metro project likely to get approval soon

Kerala's second metro rail project is expected to get approval very soon. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had written to the Union Minister of Urban Development last month seeking approval for the third phase of the Kochi Metro and metro rail projects for Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram. The government is focused on obtaining approval for the Thiruvananthapuram metro rail project at the earliest. Once the state cabinet approves the detailed project report (DPR), it will be immediately submitted to the Centre for approval.

The government is moving forward with the plan to establish a metro rail in Thiruvananthapuram with an eye to the future, considering the success of the Vizhinjam project and the major changes happening in the capital city. The government is planning to implement the metro project in two phases to address the increasing traffic congestion in the city. In May, the state government had suggested revisions to the DPR prepared by Kochi Metro Rail and instructed them to create a revised version.

The Thiruvananthapuram Metro will be operated by Kerala Rapid Transit Corporation Limited. In addition to integrating with existing transportation systems, the Thiruvananthapuram Metro will feature advanced facilities. Along with improving travel convenience, the metro is expected to boost economic growth, making Thiruvananthapuram a model for sustainable urban development.

The metro rail project in the capital city will cover a 42-kilometer route, including 37 stations. Comprehensive transportation planning and the Alternative Analysis Report (AAR) for the project have already been submitted to the government. Once the AAR, including the final alignment, is approved, it will be sent to the Ministry of Urban Affairs for central approval, which is crucial for securing funding.

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is tasked with the project. The final alignment report, proposed as per the government’s recommended route, has been submitted by KMRL. The first phase extends from Technopark to Putharikandam Maidan. The proposed route begins at Technopark, passing through Karyavattom University Campus, Ulloor, Medical College, Murinjapalam, Pattom, PMG Junction, the Legislative Assembly, Palayam, Bakery Junction, Thampanoor Central Bus Depot, Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station, and ending at Putharikandam Maidan.

Due to the presence of key locations such as Karyavattom University Campus, Technopark, Medical College, Vydyuthi Bhavanam, the Secretariat, the Legislative Assembly, University College, and several other government and private institutions, this route is expected to see high passenger numbers. Studies suggest that upon completion, the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail project will attract more passengers than the current Kochi Metro.