RITES to conduct Phase-II feasibility study of Kochi metro

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has decided to entrust Rail India Technical and Economic Service [ RITES], a central public limited company, to conduct a detailed study on the feasibility of the second phase of development of metro lanes.

From its side, RITES will undertake a study on the proposed metro network expansion to Kakkanad-the IT hub of the city, Angamaly (international airport area) and the western suburbs of the city.This would be completed in 8 months.

The board also decided to constitute a separate agency to ensure safety and quality of the project besides approving an integrated traffic system for the city that includes rail, road and water transport. The system will work parallel to the metro service.

For the ongoing Phase I, the metro is keen on implementing a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation policy alongside a package for the project-affected families. Consequently, the board will be selecting an agency to study the  'Impact, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy and Package' for the project. The first phase of the Kochi Metro will run from Aluva to Petta, near Thripunithura, with a total length of 26 km and 22 stations.

It also decided to commission a study for the preparation of  transit-oriented development (TOD) plan along the metro corridor and the 22 stations. The TOD plan includes planning and development of disaggregated urban nodes centered around these stations for fostering the development of urban facilities.

Meanwhile,  Sudhir Mittal, adviser (Works), Railway Board, has been inducted as director on the board in place of  A K Gupta.