Kochi is advancing its urban infrastructure with the INR 2,577 crore Phase 2 'Pink Line' metro expansion, adding 11.2 km and 11 stations from JLN Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad by 2026. Supported by a EUR 175 million loan from France's AFD, the metro aims to improve connectivity to Kochi's tech hubs. The INR 1,137 crore Kochi Water Metro, India's first integrated water transport system, spans 76 km with 78 battery-powered boats across 38 terminals. Meanwhile, DP World's Vallarpadam transshipment terminal saw 17% growth in 2024, now operating at 1.4 million TEU capacity. Together, these projects position Kochi as a model sustainable urban hub.Read more

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is set to finalize the construction of a new shopping complex in Kakkanad, following the demolition of the 50-year-old Kakkanad Commercial Hub. The upcoming five-story building, encompassing 18,000 sq ft, will include retail shops, office spaces, a meeting hall, restrooms, and elevator facilities. The basement will be dedicated entirely to parking, featuring separate entry and exit routes. Temporary accommodations are being arranged for displaced shop owners during the construction phase.Read more

In a significant move to uplift the underprivileged, Maradu Municipality in Kochi provided land deeds to five extremely poor families. Each family received three cents of land, valued at approximately INR 2.7 lakh, funded entirely by the municipality's own resources. These beneficiaries will also be integrated into the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), ensuring assistance for constructing their homes. Additionally, residential flats built for eight Scheduled Caste families are set to be handed over in the coming week, reflecting the municipality's ongoing commitment to social welfare.Read more

The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) Board has approved the second phase of its rehabilitation package for families displaced by airport land acquisition. The package includes permanent jobs in the Cochin Air Cargo Cooperative Society, additional prepaid taxi permits, and financial aid for affected individuals, addressing previous concerns over job stability. This move follows similar large-scale resettlement efforts seen in Navi Mumbai and Hyderabad infrastructure projects. Led by Industries Minister Shri P. Rajeeve, with Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan's backing, the initiative aims to provide long-term economic security and social stability to impacted families.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is facing delays in Phase II of the Kochi Metro, a 11.2 km Pink Line extending from JLN Stadium to Kakkanad, due to procedural hurdles in securing a INR 914 crore loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The Kerala government has yet to recommend the loan to the central government, delaying fund disbursement. Despite work starting in July 2024, financial constraints are slowing progress. Similar issues have affected metro projects in Pune and Bengaluru. Resolving the funding impasse is critical to ensuring timely completion and enhancing urban mobility in Kochi.Read more

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has issued an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the development of a 0.5-acre land parcel at Marine Drive, near Goshree Junction, under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The site may be transformed into a commercial or tourism hub, with proposals being evaluated to determine the best use. GCDA, known for its role in Kochi's urban development, has previously executed several commercial projects. The initiative aims to enhance Kochi's commercial and tourism potential, leveraging the high-value location to attract investor interest while ensuring sustainable urban growth.Read more

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is pushing for an upgrade to a Metropolitan Development Authority (MDA) to better manage Kochi's rapid urbanization. Chairman K Chandran Pillai emphasized the GCDA's role in city planning during a meeting with the State Finance Commission, warning that dissolving the authority could hinder development. The GCDA also seeks approval to issue municipal bonds to fund infrastructure projects and has requested financial reforms, including government grants and tax exemptions. This proposal aligns with national trends, as cities look to strengthen planning bodies to address growing urban challenges and economic expansion.Read more

Kochi's commercial real estate market is booming, with office space reaching 17 million sq. ft. by 2024, a 28% rise in three years, according to CBRE and CREDAI Kerala. The technology sector leads leasing at 44%, followed by consulting and analytics (25%). Retail is also growing at a 9% CAGR, with malls expanding and fashion retail dominating at 55% of leasing. The residential sector is rising in East and North Zones, driven by IT growth. Government initiatives on sustainable urban development further boost the city's appeal, positioning Kochi as a major commercial and residential hub.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to prepare the detailed project report (DPR) for its 18 km Phase III Metro line from Aluva to Angamaly via Kochi airport. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has granted in-principle approval for financial assistance. The project will feature 15 stations, including a 3 km underground section at Nedumbassery. KMRL is also assessing independent corridor feasibility and potential future extensions to Kochi GIFT City. The new line aims to reduce congestion and enhance urban transport, marking a major step in Kochi's infrastructure growth.Read more

Authorities from Kochi Corporation recently announced that the construction of flats under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) for rehabilitating residents from Kalvathy, Koncheri, and Thuruthi Colony has been completed. The project benefits 394 landless and homeless families. Two flat complexes have been built in Thuruthy-one by the municipal corporation and the other by Cochin Smart Mission Ltd. These complexes include residential units, parking, daycare centres, shop spaces, and other amenities. Inauguration is expected in March following the completion of sewage treatment plants.Read more

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has approached the state government with a request to amend the land pooling rules to facilitate the acquisition process for Infopark's Phase III campus. The proposed 300-acre campus in Kunnathunadu will be built using the land pooling method, under which landowners would get 60% of their original land back after the project's completion, with its value expected to increase substantially. GCDA aims to integrate the rules into the Town Planning Act to streamline the process and avoid legal complications. The government's decision on the requested amendments is awaited, and the third campus is expected to create significant job opportunities.Read more

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is seeking expressions of interest for two major infrastructure projects in Kadavanthra and Kakkanad through public-private partnerships (PPP). The INR 70 crore Kadavanthra twin-tower project will replace the existing 50-year-old GCDA quarters, with one tower serving as new GCDA quarters and the second managed by a private developer. The Kakkanad project, located on 129 cents along Seaport-Airport Road, will feature a modern mixed-use complex with office spaces, shopping malls, and residential units. These initiatives aim to revitalize urban infrastructure and promote economic growth in the Kochi region.Read more

The Kerala government has exempted Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) from property taxes, addressing disputes over station and infrastructure levies and relieving financial strain. This decision follows a request by KMRL and aligns with the Indian Railways Act and a tripartite agreement mandating state support. Backed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the exemption aims to improve KMRL's operational efficiency, bolstering Kochi's eco-friendly urban transport. While supporting metro growth, the move highlights the need to balance local government funding challenges with infrastructure development for sustainable urban progress.Read more

PNT Reporter

Ten months after relocating P&T Colony residents to GCDA's Mundamveli apartment complex under the Life Mission housing scheme, structural damage persists despite initial waterproofing. Residents began protests following unresolved leakages reported during May rains, demanding urgent repairs. GCDA cited design flaws and thermal expansion cracks as causes but delayed major repairs pending state technical committee approval for a INR 25 lakh proposal. Minor repair tenders are in progress, while state inspections continue. The situation highlights gaps in public housing project oversight, accountability, and maintenance. Authorities must expedite approvals, ensure durable fixes, and implement better planning to regain public trust.Read more

PNT Reporter

A recent study by Cusat, SACON, and FLAME University highlights an alarming 126% increase in built-up areas across Kochi's taluks between 2001 and 2020, far exceeding the global average of 20%. Urbanisation has caused a 57.56% loss of wetlands and a 15% decline in cropland, triggering severe ecological imbalances. Pollution, declining biodiversity, and near-extinction of species like the Soapnut tree (only 50 remain) underscore the crisis. Researchers warn of rising health issues and ecosystem degradation. The findings call for sustainable urban planning to balance development and conservation, ensuring long-term environmental and social health for Kochi.Read more

PNT Reporter

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a probe into a INR 96 crore loan scam at Angamaly Urban Cooperative Society, where 422 fraudulent loans were granted using forged property title deeds, often without the knowledge of property owners. The state crime branch, which began investigating earlier, found multiple instances of loans issued without proper documentation and in the names of non-members. Investors have also filed complaints regarding unreturned deposits. The FIR revealed the malpractice dated back to 2002, highlighting systemic fraud and mismanagement. The ED's involvement signals heightened efforts to uncover the full extent of the scam and ensure accountability.Read more

PNT Reporter

The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is set to begin demarcating boundaries for a 300-acre land pooling project for the Phase III campus of Infopark. Following a recent workshop, GCDA plans to form a dedicated team of revenue officials to facilitate the land acquisition process, which will include consultations with landowners unfamiliar with land pooling. The new campus aims to promote carbon neutrality, water self-sufficiency, and comprehensive waste management, while also providing enhanced connectivity and diverse facilities. Infopark, which has grown significantly since its establishment in 2004, continues to expand its footprint in the region.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited's (KMRL) Phase II extension to Kakkanad faces delays due to land acquisition challenges, with the 11(1) notification's validity extended by six months. Covering 11.2 km, this critical link to the IT hub includes stations like Palarivattom, Kakkanad Junction, and InfoPark. While preparatory works, including soil testing and piling, are progressing, unresolved land disputes hinder the issuance of the 19(1) notification for most stations, potentially affecting the 20-month completion target. KMRL emphasizes the project's importance for reducing traffic and boosting connectivity. The delay highlights the need for efficient land acquisition processes for timely infrastructure development.Read more

Residents of Chander Kunj Army Towers in Vyttila have filed a writ petition seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged irregularities in the construction of the twin towers. Following structural defects and multiple inspections deeming the towers unsafe, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) recommended their demolition. Petitioners, including retired Army officers Major Prince Jose and Captain Erinjeri Paul, claim corruption and malpractices led to the buildings' flaws. Despite multiple FIRs and court interventions, little progress has been made. Residents are urging swift action to prosecute those responsible and resolve the ongoing uncertainty about evacuation and compensation.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is improving public transport in Kochi with the construction of a new Metro station at Vazhakkala as part of the Pink Line project, which will connect Palarivattom to Kakkanad Junction. The land acquisition process for Vazhakkala has begun, with notifications issued for approximately 0.2078 hectares in Kanayannur taluk. The Pink Line will feature 11 stations over 11.2 kilometres, serving key areas like Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Infopark, enhancing travel efficiency. KMRL's expansion aligns with sustainable urban development goals, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and promote public transport use while contributing to local economic growth through improved connectivity.Read more