KMRL hopes to implement project as per schedule

Elias George, Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail (KMRL) expressed hope that there would not be any delay in implementing the metro rail project and it would stick to the schedule. The implementing agency also said that National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) already gave an in-principle approval to carry out construction of the Metro on the stretch between Edappally and Aluva on NH 47. Both KMRL and NHAI are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to facilitate the construction of the Metro. George said KMRL would hold talks with the highway authority as well as other stakeholders and incorporate appropriate clauses in the MoU to execute the project. According to KMRL, a 11.4 km stretch on NH 47 between Edappally and Aluva will be affected by the construction of metro. The metro will require 8 meter-wide space in the centre of the highway for executing the project. After completing the construction, KMRL will return five meter of this land and retain 3 meters for metro. KMRL plans to take over government land, remove encroachments at all places along the highway and get the land required. There is no requirement to acquire land on the entire 11.4 km stretch, but at some places it does not have an option, said a KMRL spokesperson.