Kochi Metro Expedites Phase II with Afcons’ Rs 1,141-cr Construction Deal

KOCHI: Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has taken significant strides towards the realization of Phase II of the Kochi Metro, with the awarding of a Rs 1,141-crore contract for civil construction works to Afcons Infrastructure Ltd. The Mumbai-based firm emerged as the sole technically qualified bidder after three other major firms were disqualified due to technical non-compliance with tender conditions.

Under the contract, Afcons Infrastructure Ltd will undertake the design and construction of elevated viaducts and 10 elevated stations spanning from JLN Stadium Metro station to Infopark via Kakkanad. The Phase II line, extending over 11.2 km, includes pivotal stations at strategic locations such as Palarivattom Junction, Chembumukku, Vazhakkala, and InfoPark, among others.

Commencement of construction is slated for July, marking a critical milestone in the project timeline. KMRL aims to complete the civil construction of the pink line within 20 months, followed by system and signalling works within an additional four months. Unlike Phase I, which employed conventional methods, Phase II will adopt a precast construction approach for stations, aiming to expedite the project timeline.

To support the construction efforts, a dedicated six-hectare precast yard has been identified at HMT Kalamassery. This strategic move is expected to enhance efficiency in station construction. Notably, the Phase II project includes the installation of two special spans of steel trusses exceeding 60 meters each, enhancing structural robustness at critical junctures such as Palarivattom Bypass and St Martin Church, Palarivattom Junction.

Afcons Infrastructure Ltd brings a wealth of experience from its involvement in several landmark infrastructure projects across India, including the Delhi Meerut RRTS, Atal Tunnel, and Chennai Metro Blue Line. This expertise positions them favourably to execute the Kochi Metro Phase II project, which is pivotal for enhancing urban mobility and connectivity across Kochi.

As the construction phase gears up, KMRL remains committed to stringent project management practices and timelines, aiming to deliver Phase II of the Kochi Metro as a beacon of modern urban transportation infrastructure in South India.