KMRL to focus on Metro City project

Kochi: As the Metro project is progressing at a fast pace, the Kochi Metro Rail Limited is now focusing on its realty development projects which will be the major non-traffic revenue generators of KMRL. The eco-friendly Metro City project proposed on 18 acres of land at Kakkanad has got a push with a study, ahead of preparing the detailed development plan, in the final stage. Revenue from the commercial space at the Metro City is expected to help the Metro Rail project achieve breakeven at the earliest.

“The Geotechnical survey is going on to assess the geographical features of the land which will be followed by an environment impact assessment study. The detailed development plan will be based on these study reports. Tenders will be floated to select a detailed design consultant which will design and implement the project,” said a top official with KMRL. The design of the township project will be in such a way as to minimize environmental damage.

The KMRL had earlier selected Ernst and Young as the transaction advisor agency which submitted a proposal for the project with plans of residential, commercial and recreational facilities.

The state government had earlier handed over 18 acres of land owned by the Public Works Department for the project.

Earlier KMRL managing director Elias George told DC that Metro City was one of the top five priorities of the Metro agency this year.

Meanwhile, KMRL had to put on hold the Metro village at Muttom, another realty development project proposal, following stiff opposition from green activists.