Kochi metro will require 40.4 hectare land

The Kochi metro rail project requires a total of 40.409 hectare land, including parking space, according to the revised report prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

Stations that would get additional parking space include Kalamassery, Edappally and Kaloor other than two terminal stations — Aluva and Petta (Thripunithura).

The total land required for all the 22 stations is 9.3941 ha, including minimum parking in 21 stations. For the additional parking 2.7869 ha will be used, a press release stated. The depot at Muttom meant for maintenance and repairing of rolling stock requires 23.605 ha.

“'We are going ahead with the preparations at a fast pace to avoid any delay in implementing the project. Now the next step is taking the land in possession so that we can start the work,” Elias George, managing director, Kochi Metro Rail Limited, stated. According to the report, all the stations except Maharajas College will have parking space. Meanwhile, chief minister Oommen Chandy stated DMRC would implement the project. He ruled out all apprehensions raised against this. He added he would go to Delhi to meet all concerned along with DMRC mentor E Sreedharan.

The DMRC board meeting scheduled on November 27 will take a decision in favour of Kochi Metro.