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Work on the second phase of the Kochi Metro, which will extend the line to Infopark and SmartCity through Kakkanad, is likely to be completed by December 2026, said Loknath Behera, Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), on Friday. He said the original plan was to open the
first five stations of Phase II by June 2026. Kochi Metro's focus is on finishing at least the civil and electrical works on the stretch between JLN Stadium and Padamugal by that time.
Signing of the MoU with IISc
Mr. Behera said that after KMRL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, the agreement is meant to support joint research and practical work in the areas of sustainable urban mobility and public transport systems.
Work on Phase II Corridor
He explained that all work on the Phase II corridor must be completed before the four-year deadline in December 2026. If the project is delayed beyond this, it could lead to higher costs. He pointed out two major reasons for the delay so far. One was the unexpected discovery of a gas pipeline between Alinchuvadu and Padamugal along the planned Metro route, which slowed down piling work. The other was the delay in getting land for the Chembumukku and Padamugal stations.
Handling Challenges
To manage these challenges, KMRL has decided to continue work on sections without obstacles. At the same time, the agency is moving ahead with other activities, such as issuing tenders for track laying. On the delay in state government approval for a loan of about ₹1,200 crore from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Mr. Behera said the Cabinet would approve it soon.
How Will the Project be Beneficial?
Explaining the MoU with IISc, he said the partnership will combine KMRL's on-ground experience with IISc's data-based research skills. The goal is to develop better transport solutions, including Metro Rail, Water Metro, and canal-based transport, to improve access, reduce traffic congestion, and cut carbon emissions. Professor Ashish Verma of IISc and KMRL Projects Director M. P. Ramnavas also spoke at the event.
