Four routes on table for Kochi Metro’s Angamaly extension

Kochi: Seamless connectivity to Kochi airport has emerged as the defining factor in the proposed Phase III extension of Kochi Metro from Aluva to Angamaly, as detailed project report (DPR) enters its final stage.Four alignment options are now on the table in a report prepared by consultant Systra MVA for the nearly 30-km stretch. But the proposal is now being evaluated on technical feasibility, cost and projected ridership. Simultaneously, the agency has begun factoring in public feedback before locking in final alignment.
Sources indicate that a "hybrid" corridor — combining elevated and underground stretches — has gained preference for its potential to maximize connectivity and passenger footfall.Under this option, the line would begin as an elevated stretch from Aluva along NH 544 up to Kariyad. A crucial three-km underground section is proposed thereafter to directly link the network to airport, with an underground Metro station planned at the airport. Post-airport, the corridor would revert to an elevated structure, passing through Nayathode and Areekkal before terminating at Karayamparambu in Angamaly town.Final alignment decision, expected once DPR is completed, will determine how effectively Metro integrates airport and northern suburbs into Kochi's expanding transit grid.The proposed alignment envisions 15 strategic stations to serve as commuter hubs — Thottakkattukara, Kunnumpuram, Parambayam, Nedumbassery, Athani, Kariyad, Airport Railway Station, Airport, Nayathode, Kavarapparambu, Areekkal Jn, LF Hospital, Angamaly Town, Kothakulangara and Karayamparambu.The DPR also explores three other options — a fully elevated route along NH 544 stretch that bypasses the airport entirely, fully elevated airport link and fully underground corridor to airport.Meanwhile, despite preference for Nayathode-Areekkal route, a significant segment of stakeholders is advocating for Metro to stick closer to national highway after airport. This would bring Metro closer to major industrial and transit points, including Telk (Transformers and Electricals Kerala Ltd), Angamaly railway station and municipal bus stand, ensuring a truly integrated multi-modal transport network, they argue.A discussion of possible routes in Airport-Angamaly section was held in Angamaly on Wednesday in which Angamaly MLA Roji M John and municipality chairperson Reetha Paul attended."Metro authorities presented multiple route options from airport to Angamaly. As per National Metro Rail policy, any alignment should ensure connectivity to airport since the project couldn't meet the population criteria. They are yet to finalize an alignment, but airport connectivity is a must. They said they will study all options and take a final decision based on technical and economic factors," John told TOI.