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

Loknath Behera, managing director of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), said here on Friday, February 6, 2026, that the 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. On the plan to commission the first five stations in the second phase by June, Mr. Behera said KMRL is working to complete civil and electrical works at least in the area 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 conduct joint research and implementation in the fields of sustainable urban mobility and public transport systems.

He said work on the entire site should be completed before the four-year term ends in December. Mr. Behera said, “Otherwise, problems such as increased costs will arise.” He cited delays in piling due to the “surprise” detection of a gas pipeline between Alinchuvadu and Padamugal along the proposed metro line and the unavailability of land for Chembumukku and Padamugal stations as two major hurdles to meeting the June deadline.

“We strategically decided to complete the works on the free sections. We are simultaneously carrying out other processes, including the holding of rail tenders,” he said. Asked about the state government’s delay in approving a loan of around Rs 1,200 crore from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Mr. Behera said Cabinet approval would be taken quickly.

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

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