All About Trivandrum Metro Rail Project

Trivandrum's getting a metro!

The proposed light metro project in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala is going to get its green flag by next month!

The construction of Trivandrum Metro is gaining momentum and is been approved with a capital amount of Rs 11,560.8 Cr by the State Government. The metro project outline is being currently reviewed by the government and the metro rail authorities. By the month of July 2024, Trivandrum is to expect the final DRP of the light metro project!

So, want to know more about the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Project in Kerala?

Come, let's dig into it!

Trivandrum Metro - An Overview

Serving the bustling metro city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Trivandrum Metro is a proposed rapid transit system by the State Government. The agency is been implemented to anticipate the gaining approval of this light metro project in Trivandrum, Kerala.

As per the DRP presented by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation(DMRC), Thiruvananthapuram Metro will be having 2 corridors, where the first corridor will be servicing from Pallipuram to the Pallichal neighborhood of Trivandrum. As for the 2nd corridor, it will be running from Kazhakkoottam to Killipalam. The funding is been allocated to the 2 corridors of the Thiruvananthapuram Metro Project. Rs 7,503.18 Cr and Rs 4,057.7 Cr for funding for each corridor respectively.

Estimated to project a high traffic volume in the near future, the Thiruvananthapuram Light Metro project is based on CMP, i.e., the Comprehensive Mobility Plan of the city. The Kochi Metro Rail Limited(KMRL) is expected to submit the final Detailed Project Report(DPR) to the State Government. And, as per the reports, the Trivandrum Metro Project will be running a total distance of 42.1 km, comprising 2 major corridors, serving the sought-after neighborhoods of Trivandrum, Kerala.

Trivandrum Metro - Route Map

As been mentioned above, 2 corridors, i.e., two phases will offered as part of Trivandrum Metro. Covering a total distance of 22.537 km, the Technocity-Karamana line will be receiving 19 stations, which will be servicing along the old NH 47 in Trivandrum.

Trivandrum Metro Phase 1 will start from Technocity and terminate at Thampanoor, covering a distance of approximately 21.821 km and having 19 stations. The Thiruvananthapuram metro station in Line 1 are:

• Technocity

• Pallipuram

• Kaniyapuram

• Kazhakoottam

• Kazhakoottam Junction

• Kariavattom

• Gurumandiram

• Pangappara

• Sreekaryam

• Ulloor

• Kesavadasapuram

• Pattom

• Plamoodu

• Palayam

• Secretariat

• Thampanoor (Trivandrum Central Railway Station)

• Killipalam

• Karamana

Phase 1 of Thiruvananthapuram Light Metro is expected to open for commercial run by 2025. There hasn't been any report on Trivandrum Metro Phase 2, yet.

Trivandrum Metro - Cost & Funding

The Trivandrum Metro has two projects with distinct costs and funding plans. The currently under-construction Thiruvananthapuram Light Metro, Phase 1, is a more affordable project with an estimated cost of ₹4,219 crore. This project benefits from a mix of funding sources, including contributions from the Kerala government, the Kerala Rapid Transit Corporation Limited (KRTL), and a loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

On the other hand, there's a proposal for a much more extensive Trivandrum Conventional Metro. The Thiruvananthapuram Conventional Metro project comes with a significantly higher estimated cost of ₹11,560.8 crore. The funding structure for this ambitious plan is still under discussion. Potential sources include the central government of India, the Kerala government, public-private partnerships, and loans from financial institutions.

Trivandrum Metro - Fare & Ticket Price

The Trivandrum Metro is still under construction, but authorities have proposed a fare range to give riders an idea of costs. Tickets are expected to use modern technology like contactless smart cards and QR codes for a smooth experience.

While the exact prices aren't set yet, expect fares to fall between Rs. 11 for short rides and Rs. 42 for longer journeys.

Trivandrum Metro - Land Acquisition & Construction

The Trivandrum Metro project is facing some hurdles with land acquisition. While the total land needed is minimized for stations and flyovers, there are still delays.

• Land Acquisition: The project requires acquiring land for stations, flyovers, and viaducts. The government is aiming for direct purchases whenever possible to expedite the process. For instance, they've acquired 4.8 acres for stations and another 5.22 acres for flyovers.

• Construction Progress: Despite the land acquisition challenges, some construction is underway. The first viaduct was finished in June 2023, and the first tunnel is expected to be completed by the end of this year (2024).

The initial target completion date of 2025 has been pushed back to 2027 due to these delays. The final date depends on how quickly land acquisition is resolved and construction progresses.

Trivandrum Metro - Impact on Real Estate

The Trivandrum Metro is expected to be a game-changer for the city's real estate market, bringing both positive and strategic investment opportunities. Here's a breakdown of the potential impact:

• Increased Property Values and Demand: Areas around metro stations are likely to see a significant rise in property values. Easier commuting, reduced traffic congestion, and improved accessibility will make these locations highly desirable for residents and businesses alike. This will lead to increased demand for housing and commercial properties for sale in Trivandrum.

• Improved Connectivity and Investment Attraction: The metro will act as a major artery, connecting previously distant parts of the city. This improved connectivity will not only benefit residents but also attract investors to previously underdeveloped areas that suddenly become well-connected.

• Strategic Investment Areas: Some areas stand to benefit more than others. Places near IT hubs like Technopark, the upcoming Techno City township in Phase IV, and the Kochuveli Railway Station are prime examples. These locations can expect a surge in demand for residential and commercial properties once the metro becomes operational.

Just as proposed for the Kochi Metro System, as they have well maintained the Kochi Water Metro, the first water metro in India, the Thiruvananthapuram metro project is also expected to receive the Monorail.

With the Monorail proposal for the Trivandrum Metro Project, this transit system in Kerala will be embracing the mode of rail transportation a level up along with the uprising real estate market of the city.

So, there you go, folks. These are all you need to know about the Trivandrum Metro AKA, Thiruvananthapuram Light Metro Project in Kerala, India. Share your thoughts on the matter in the comment section below!