Work on second phase of Kochi metro likely to be ready by December 2026, says KMRL

Work on the second phase of the Kochi Metro, which extends the line to Infopark and SmartCity via Kakkanad, is expected to be completed by December 2026, Loknath Behera, managing director, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), said here on Friday (February 6, 2026). On the earlier plan to commission the first five stations in the second phase by June, Mr. Behera said KMRL was working to complete at least the civil and electrical works on the stretch from JLN Stadium to Padamugal by then.

He was addressing the media after KMRL signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, to undertake joint research and implementation in the areas of sustainable urban mobility and public transport systems.

He said the works on the entire stretch would have to be completed before the four-year deadline ends in December. “Otherwise, issues such as cost escalation will arise,” Mr. Behera said. He cited delays in piling caused by what he termed a “surprise” detection of a gas pipeline between Alinchuvadu and Padamugal along the proposed metro line, and the unavailability of land for the Chembumukku and Padamugal stations, as two major obstacles to meeting the June deadline.

“Strategically, we have decided to complete works in stretches that are free. Simultaneously, we are undertaking other processes, including issuing tenders for tracks,” he said. Asked about the delay by the State government in approving an around ₹1,200 crore loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Mr. Behera said that Cabinet approval would be obtained quickly.

Elaborating on the MoU with IISc, Mr. Behera said it aims to combine KMRL’s practical experience in developing and operating multimodal urban transport systems with IISc’s advanced, data-driven research expertise. “The research outcomes will help us design integrated solutions for Metro Rail, Water Metro, canal-based transport, and other mobility initiatives, ensuring equitable access, reduced congestion, and lower carbon emissions,” Mr. Behera said.

Speaking on the occasion, Ashish Verma, Professor, Transportation Planning and Policy at IISc, Bengaluru, said the collaboration is focused on solving real-world urban challenges through evidence-based research. M. P. Ramnavas, director (Projects), KMRL, also spoke.