Kochi: The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has initiated work on the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for its proposed third Metro corridor connecting Aluva and Angamaly through Kochi airport.
The DPR contract has been awarded to Haryana-based Systra MVA Consulting India Pvt Ltd at a cost of Rs 1.3 crore, following the Union government’s approval.
The move marks a significant step toward fulfilling a long-standing demand for extending Metro services to Angamaly and providing direct connectivity to the airport. According to KMRL officials, the consultant is expected to submit the DPR within six months.
The process to select a consultant began in 2024, after the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs granted in-principle approval for central financial support.
Initially, state-run RITES was the sole bidder, but its quoted cost was more than double the estimate. KMRL later issued a re-tender, excluding feasibility studies for a possible extension to the proposed GIFT City at Ayyampuzha and rolling stock analysis for Phase III.
Outlining the preliminary plan, KMRL said the Phase III line will start from Aluva along NH-544 up to Aleena Valavu near Akaparambu, pass through Kariyad–Airport–Mattoor Road to the airport and then continue via Angamaly-Airport Road to MC Road, extending about 2 km further on NH-544 towards Thrissur. The DPR will define the final alignment, station locations and overall length.
