KOCHI:The development of a parallel corridor is vital as the works on the proposed second phase of extension of Kochi Metro to Kakkanad via Infopark will add to the existing traffic chaos between Palarivattom signal and Collectorate junction.
With the road barricaded for construction activities, commuters from the Seaport-Airport Road will have to depend on byroads, including the Palachuvadu-Vennala-Chakkaraparambu route to reach the NH Bypass to get to the city.The existing arterial road leading to Kakkanad will have to be widened before the beginning of construction activities.
Meanwhile, the government is yet to launch steps to acquire land for the widening, including obtaining the sanction of the Union Government.
Even if the Centre gives its nod, the work cannot be launched immediately, as the land acquisition for preparatory works alone will take a minimum of six months.
“Before the commencement of the Metro work to Kakkanad, the preparatory works should be completed,” said an officer in charge of the land acquisition wing.
“About 3.5 acres need to be acquired. The administrative sanction for land acquisition was given on June 16. Further steps in this regard are yet to be taken.”
The total length of Metro rail up to Kakkanad is 11 km with a total of 11 stations; 8.65 acres need to be acquired for road widening, construction of stations and related facilities. The cost for land acquisition alone is estimated at Rs 141 crore. The state government had already submitted the proposal for extension of metro rail to Kakkanad before the Union government.
However, the changes in the Urban Development Ministry, including the appointment of a new minister and widening of the scope of the ministry, and the change in the Metro Rail policy are likely to delay the sanction by another three months. By the time of receiving the sanction, at least the preparatory works should be launched.
