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Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail Project: A Major Infrastructure Boost for Kerala’s Capital

The Kerala government is expected to approve the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail project soon, following its inclusion in the Union Budget 2025-2026. The project has already received clearance from the finance department, and once the chief minister approves the alignment, it will proceed for cabinet approval by the end of February 2025. Project Overview and Execution The 2025-2026 Kerala Budget, presented by Finance Minister KN Balagopal, confirmed that construction of the first phase of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro would commence this year. Plans for the Kozhikode Metro are also in progress. The execution of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro will be managed by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), which has been entrusted with the project s development. Project Status and Route Alignments In February 2024, KMRL submitted the executive summary of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the State government. The DPR proposed two possible alignment options: One route covering Karyavattom, MG Road, Thampanoor, and Killipalam. Another alignment via NH 66, passing through Kazhakkoottam, Akkulam, Enchakkal, and Killipalam. The final alignment is awaiting approval from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan before the project advances to the next stage. Proposed Corridors and Stations The Thiruvananthapuram Metro is designed with two corridors spanning a total of 42.1 km, ensuring connectivity to key city locations. The first corridor, extending 27.4 km, will run from Technocity to Pallichal, featuring 24 stations along the old NH 47. The second corridor will span 14.7 km from Killipalam to Kazhakkoottam, covering areas such as Technopark, Lulu Mall, Chacka, and Eanchakkal. A portion of this segment, from Eanchakkal to Killipalam, is planned to be an underground corridor. Estimated Project Cost and Timeline While the official budget is yet to be announced, previous estimates suggest a cost of approximately Rs 60 crore per kilometer. The project is expected to be completed within 30 months after construction begins. Impact on Real Estate and Economic Growth Currently, Thiruvananthapuram s transportation network relies heavily on road and railway systems. The introduction of the metro aims to provide a more affordable and convenient alternative for city commuters. As a result, real estate markets around the metro corridors are expected to experience significant growth. Key areas such as Nemom, Pallichal, and Poonkulam are likely to attract increased real estate investments due to enhanced connectivity. The presence of metro stations will also make these areas more appealing for commercial and residential developments, further boosting property values. Businesses seeking office spaces in prime locations will benefit from improved accessibility, making the metro project a catalyst for economic expansion in the city. Conclusion The Thiruvananthapuram Metro project represents a transformative step in Kerala s infrastructure development. Once operational, it will not only ease urban commuting but also drive significant real estate growth and economic opportunities. As the project moves forward, it promises to reshape the city s transportation landscape, making Thiruvananthapuram a more connected and investment-friendly destination.