Thiruvananthapuram Metro Set to Begin Soon After Approvals, Completion Expected in 2½ Years

Thiruvananthapuram: Construction of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro is set to begin immediately once all approvals are obtained, KMRL MD Loknath Behera said. He added that some modifications are required in the current detailed project report (DPR). Once these changes are incorporated, the revised DPR will be submitted to the state council for approval within one and a half months and then forwarded to the Union Cabinet. Behera stated that construction will commence without delay after receiving central government approval.

Behera said the project aims to be completed as quickly as possible. Six months are expected to obtain the necessary approvals, and if the plan proceeds smoothly, construction could be completed within two and a half years. The Thiruvananthapuram Metro will follow the model of the Kochi Metro. The total project cost is estimated at around 7,800–8,000 crore. The central and state governments will each bear 20% of the project cost, while 60% will be financed through loans. The central government is considering increasing the government’s share, which would reduce the loan burden.

According to Behera, the project will incorporate modern technologies to speed up construction and allows for future extension up to Valiyathura. Eventually, the entire city of Thiruvananthapuram can be integrated into the metro network. The system will include digital ticketing, footpaths, electric autos, buses, and other feeder services. Parking will be ensured at all stations, with multi-level parking provided in areas with limited land availability.

Daily ridership in Thiruvananthapuram is expected to match or exceed that of Kochi Metro. Behera also noted that the second phase of Kochi Metro is expected to be completed by December 2026, ahead of the central government’s schedule.

Yesterday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan approved the first-phase alignment of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail project. The approved route connects the three phases of Technopark, the airport, Thampanoor bus stand, railway station, Secretariat, and Medical College. The project will be implemented through Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL).