KOCHI: Construction of Kochi Metro’s Phase II corridor connecting JLN Stadium station and Infopark via Kakkanad has entered an accelerated phase, with the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) reporting significant progress on one of Kerala’s largest ongoing urban infrastructure projects.
The 10.58-km elevated corridor, comprising 10 stations, is expected to be completed by next June, followed by testing, commissioning, and system integration work. KMRL is aiming to open the line for service in August, 2027.
According to KMRL, all foundation work, including piling and pile-cap construction at station sites, have been completed. Around 85% of the viaduct piling work has also been finished, while nearly 3.5 km of superstructure – comprising U-girders and I-girders – has already been launched and is ready for track laying.
Metro officials said viaduct construction is currently progressing at a rate of 25-30 metres per day and is expected to accelerate further after the monsoon season. The agency noted that all key systems contracts, including those related to track work, power supply, signalling and telecommunications, have already been finalised, enabling parallel progress across various project components.
However, the project has had to navigate several challenges, particularly due to the densely built-up urban corridor through which it passes. Utility relocation emerged as one of the most complex aspects of execution, requiring extensive coordination with multiple agencies.
One of the most difficult stretches was the Civil Lane section between Pipeline Junction and Padamughal, where the presence of the Indian Oil Adani Gas pipeline affected construction. Following its relocation in January this year, piling and pier construction in the area was completed.
Similarly, several Kerala Water Authority pipelines were found to be clashing with foundation locations, necessitating design modifications and relocation work that are now nearing completion.
The JLN Stadium-Palarivattom section also witnessed delays owing to phased land handover and the presence of critical infra structure, including major KWA pipelines and KSEB’s high-voltage transmission lines. KMRL said piling work in this stretch is progressing.