Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) and Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) are set to collaborate on a 3-kilometre underground metro line and station at Nedumbassery, as part of Kochi Metro's Phase-III expansion from Aluva to Angamaly. The proposed underground station will connect directly to the airport, similar to Delhi Metro's Airport Express Line. This extension, which follows National Highway-544 and key local roads, is projected to cost around INR 8,000 crore, with Cial expected to contribute about INR 1,000 crore for the underground section. Approval from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is awaited, with cost-sharing details under review by Cial's board.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) will soon begin constructing two new stations-Cochin SEZ and Chittethukara-on the Phase II Pink Line, connecting JLN Stadium to Kakkanad. The land acquisition process for these stations has been approved, with a total of 0.416 hectares to be acquired. The Pink Line, featuring 11 stations, has a project cost of INR 1,957.05 crore. Construction work on Infopark station has already started, and the viaduct contract has been awarded to Afcons for INR 1,141.32 crore, with a completion timeline of 20 months.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has proposed a new Thiruvananthapuram Metro line from Kazhakkoottam Junction to Putharikandam Ground, spanning 14.9 km. This shift follows the scrapping of plans for a Pallippuram starting point, influenced by potential NHAI objections regarding road excavations. KMRL's Managing Director, Loknath Behera, highlighted the advantages of the new alignment, which connects key areas such as Technopark and the legislative assembly, and suggested future extensions to Pallippuram, Kudappanakunnu, and Neyyattinkara in phase II. The project’s phase I is estimated to cost INR 4,673 crores, with KRTL having been dissolved in 2022.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) began work on the flyover and CEZ Metro station for the Phase II Pink Line project last Saturday, with Industry Minister P Rajeev presiding over the inauguration. Afcons Infrastructure Ltd started the piling for the 11.2 km flyover, part of the INR 1,957.05 crore project, which had a 20-month completion timeline. The entire Phase II was expected to be finished in two years. KMRL had secured INR 914 crore in financial support from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Preliminary work, including test pilings and soil testing, had been completed. System and signaling installation followed, though alternative route plans to alleviate traffic disruption were still pending.Read more

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved a INR 914 crore loan for Kochi Metro's Phase II, specifically for the Pink Line, connecting JLN Stadium to Infopark. Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) initiated construction in July with state funds due to delayed AIIB funding, and will sign the loan contract in October. Afcons Infrastructure Ltd will build the 11.2 km via duct for INR 1,141 crore, aiming to complete it within 20 months. The Pink Line, costing INR 1,957 crore in total, includes ten new stations, with system and signaling work expected to finish four months afterward.Read more

NBCC (India) Limited, the government's construction arm, is set to embark on a INR 2000 crore mixed-use project in Kochi, Kerala, for developing a 17.9-acre land parcel owned by the Kerala State Housing Board. The project, planned in two phases, will include a mixed-use commercial-cum-residential complex, showcasing a total built-up area of 3,92,600 sq m. Designed as a mini smart city with sustainable features, including solar power and rain harvesting, the development aims to enhance Kochi's urban landscape and contribute to economic and social growth.Read more

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three key infrastructure projects in Kochi, Kerala, collectively valued at over Rs 4,000 crore. The projects, including the New Dry Dock at Cochin Shipyard, the International Ship Repair Facility, and the LPG Import Terminal, align with Modi's vision to revolutionize India's ports, shipping, and waterways. The Prime Minister celebrated the positive impact on Kerala's development, anticipating significant boosts to shipbuilding, repairing, and the LPG sector. Modi acknowledged the transformative reforms in the sector over the past decade, foreseeing Asia's largest ship repair centre in Kochi and extended wishes for Kerala's continued rapid development.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is set to begin the Phase III expansion of its network, focusing on an essential airport line. The work is expected to begin at the start of next year. This follows the completion of a comprehensive mobility plan by a Delhi-based consultancy. The project includes two proposed lines, enhancing connectivity to Cochin International Airport. The revised detailed project report (DPR), reflecting updated population and passenger flow data, will be submitted to the state government soon. This expansion is expected to significantly boost ridership and profitability for the metro system.Read more

Kochi is advancing the construction of two housing complexes designed for slum dwellers in West Kochi. The Thuruthy complex, led by the Kochi Corporation and financially supported by Cochin Smart Mission Ltd (CSML), is utilizing approximately Rs 18 crore from Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) and Rs 21 crore from CSML. The Mattancherry complex, overseen by CSML, is a ground-plus-13-floor development costing Rs 44 crore. Despite delays in approvals from the Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority for the Mattancherry project, the set completion date remains steadfast at February 2024. The timely commissioning of these complexes is crucial for urban development and addressing housing challenges in Kochi, underscoring the need for efficient project management and adherence to deadlines.Read more

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is taking a proactive approach to the construction of Chembumukku and Padamugal stations along the Phase II line. If there are delays in land acquisition for these stations, KMRL plans to proceed with the construction of the other eight stations. The government has provided administrative sanction for land acquisition, but opposition from residents may delay decisions for Chembumukku and Padamugal. KMRL is exploring vacant government land as an alternative. The consideration to start construction on other stations while awaiting decisions reflects KMRL's commitment, with a focus on innovative solutions to mitigate potential challenges and streamline the process.Read more

The revenue department in Kochi has issued an 11(1) notification for land acquisition for five metro stations on the Phase II line of the Kochi Metro, with two more notifications expected soon. The proposed stations at Palarivattom Junction, Kakkanad, Cochin SEZ, Chittethukara, and Kinfra will require the acquisition of 0.9544 hectares of land from Edappally South and Kakkanad villages. KMRL aims to create eco-friendly, modern architectural designs for the stations. Construction work is planned to be expedited, with a precast method for station construction. There are some concerns about the proximity of the St Michael's Church to the metro alignment which had earlier led to protests.Read more

The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has initiated the process of leasing 17.43 acres of land within the proposed Bliss City project in Kakkanad. This move is intended to expedite the development of the mixed-use project, which originally included plans for a medical city and entertainment hub. The decision to lease this portion of the land came after investors showed interest in residential development, which did not align with KMRL's vision. The remaining 14 acres of land within Bliss City are under discussion, with the possibility of them being used for IT infrastructure to support Infopark's needs.Read more

Kochi Corporation is contemplating reclassifying property tax categories based on road width. The existing system, in place since 1995, categorizes properties as primary, secondary, or tertiary. Primary properties have access to roads over five metres wide, secondary properties to narrower roads, and tertiary properties to pathways or no access. The re-evaluation is prompted by the city's development and aims to increase revenue. Kochi Corporation seeks to generate more income through tax avenues and collect funds owed by the state government. The move is essential as the corporation currently relies on central and state government funds for projects.Read more

Authorities in Gandhinagar face complications as errors in the beneficiary list have emerged during the planned relocation of P&T Colony residents to a new apartment complex. At least five renters were mistakenly included among the 83 beneficiaries, prompting the need for a fresh list and potential investigations into property dynamics. Despite these challenges, the Greater Cochin Development Authority remains committed to completing the relocation within a fortnight, with substantial government funding supporting the project.Read more

The inauguration of two apartment complexes in Mundamveli marks a significant step towards addressing the long-pending issue of rehabilitating 82 families residing on poramboke land in Gandhinagar, Kochi. The project, initiated as part of the Life Mission, faced multiple delays. These apartments aim to improve the living conditions of families who previously faced issues like flooding during the monsoon and lacked access to proper toilet facilities. This initiative highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between government bodies and officials to uplift marginalized communities and provide essential amenities for a better quality of life.Read more

Prestige Group has unveiled Forum Kochi, a cutting-edge retail destination developed in collaboration with Thomsun Realtors. This lifestyle mall promises an all-encompassing experience in shopping, dining, entertainment, and hospitality, showcasing Kerala's heritage in its design. The mall features a curated mix of premier brands, an upscale food court, Kerala's first Funcity entertainment centre, luxury watch stores, and upscale fine-dining venues. Additionally, the development includes The Artiste Kochi, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, providing a luxurious retreat. Forum Kochi aims to redefine retail in Kochi by blending culture, luxury, and convenience in perfect harmony.Read more

Property tax defaulters in Ernakulam district owe a collective sum of Rs 392 crore to local bodies as of August 5, 2023, with building owners under Kochi Corporation limits leading the list at Rs 252 crore. Kalamassery and Thrikkakara have the highest pending property tax amounts among municipalities. In contrast, property tax payment compliance is higher in panchayat limits. Corporation data indicates that only 20% of arrears were recovered in the last fiscal year, mainly due to the non-deduction of dues from building owners facing revenue recovery proceedings. The challenge lies in balancing revenue generation and providing relief through exemptions.Read more

The long-awaited LIFE Mission housing project near Mundamveli, owned by the GCDA, is in its final stages, set to launch by month-end. With one block completed and the second nearly finished, relief is imminent for 80 families from P&T Colony who will relocate. The Thrissur District Labour Contract Co-operative Society is expediting work. The inauguration awaits Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's coordination. This project comprises two four-story buildings, 83 flats, essential amenities, and integrated rainwater harvesting, with an estimated cost of Rs 14.61 crore. The launch marks a significant step toward improved living conditions and collaboration in funding and execution.Read more

Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has announced its return to affordable housing projects after a hiatus of nearly three decades. The GCDA executive committee has approved plans to construct a twin tower apartment complex on a one-acre land in Gandhinagar, Cochin. The existing staff quarters will be demolished to make way for the project. The complex will target middle and high-income groups, offering modern amenities and improved living quarters for GCDA staff. With an estimated cost of Rs 60 crore, GCDA aims to sell the flats to generate revenue. The project also includes a commercial space with a shopping complex and supermarket.Read more

Godrej Interio, the furniture solutions arm of Godrej & Boyce, has clinched the interior and MEP contract for Terminal 2's transit accommodation at Cochin International Airport. This development marks the third collaborative venture with Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) since 2015. Spread over 55,000 sq ft, the project includes a range of services, from civil finishes to fire protection. The revamped transit accommodation space is set to be unveiled to the public in 2024. This partnership reaffirms Godrej Interio's commitment to infrastructure development, underlining its contribution to India's economic growth.Read more