Kochi Metro Phase II Work Delayed Amid Land Acquisition Issues.

The construction of Kochi Metro Rail Limited's (KMRL) Phase II line, extending from JLN Stadium to Kakkanad, has been delayed due to issues surrounding land acquisition. The revenue authorities have extended the validity of the 11(1) notification for land acquisition by six months, which has delayed the issuance of the 19(1) notification for several stations.

The 11(1) notification, which is critical for land acquisition, has been issued for stations at Palarivattom, Kakkanad, CSEZ, Chitethukara, and Kinfra. However, the 19(1) notification has yet to be published for all but CSEZ and Chitethukara. As a result, the validity of the 11(1) notification for Metro stations between JLN Stadium and Kakkanad Infopark has been extended by six months, effective from October 31, according to an order from the revenue authorities.

Despite this setback, piling works for the viaduct construction and the CEZ Metro station began in September. KMRL had previously announced that the 11.2 km Phase II project would be completed within 20 months. Preparatory activities, including initial works along various sections of the proposed route, have also been underway.

The delay in issuing the 19(1) notification is largely due to ongoing disputes over land ownership. While soil tests have been completed along the viaduct route and a topographical survey has been conducted, the delay in acquiring land is affecting the progress of the project. The new stations planned for Phase II include Palarivattom Junction, Palarivattom Bypass, Chembumukku, Vazhakkala, Padamughal, Kakkanad Junction, Cochin SEZ, Chittethukara, KINFRA, and InfoPark.

ET