The detailed project blueprint for the Kochi Metro extension from Aluva to Nedumbassery Airport and Angamaly is expected by April, with multiple alignments under consideration and costs projected to exceed Rs 8,000 crore.

Alignments under consideration

The third phase of Kochi Metro, connecting Aluva to Nedumbassery Airport and Angamaly, is examining four possible alignments. Factors such as technical feasibility, land acquisition, and cost will determine the final route.

  • Alignment 1: Starts from Aluva, elevated over the national highway to Kariad, then underground through the airport area, emerging elevated again to end at Karayamparambu in Angamaly.
  • Alignment 2: Entirely elevated along the national highway but bypassing the airport; less preferred due to limited accessibility.
  • Alignment 3: Fully elevated from Aluva via Airport to Angamaly, similar to the current metro route.
  • Alignment 4: Entirely underground along the same route for maximum minimal surface disruption.

The number of stations may vary depending on the final alignment, but 15 stations are likely:

Thottakkattukara, Kunnumpuram, Parambayam, Nedumbassery, Athani, Kariad, Airport Railway Station, Airport, Nayathode, Kavurparambu, Arekkal Junction, L.F. Hospital, Angamaly Town, Kothakulangara, and Karayamparambu.

Earlier transportation studies for the Angamaly route estimated 11 stations from Aluva to Kothakulangara, a projected cost of Rs 3,115 crore, and a passenger forecast of 1.12 lakh by 2031.

Project cost and timeline

The third phase of Kochi Metro is expected to cost over Rs 8,000 crore, varying based on the alignment choice. Costs will be higher for fully underground routes. The final blueprint is scheduled for completion by April 2026, after which construction planning will proceed.

The new line aims to provide efficient connectivity from Aluva to the airport and Angamaly, significantly improving travel for commuters and airport passengers, and enhancing Kerala’s metro transport network.