RailEnquiry

KOCHI: Even though the state government has given the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) four years to wrap up the Kochi Metro project, the Metro authority, which has set a record of sorts in finishing projects ahead of time, is giving itself three years to complete the rail system.It has set March 31, 2016 as the deadline for commissioning the first phase of the work.According to DMRC officials, the date of completion of the project from Aluva to Pettah will be counted from the day Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) hands over funds for executing civil works, which is set to be officially inaugurated on June 7."The plan is to complete the civil works in 24 months and then focus on procuring rolling stock (coaches), electrification, installation of signaling systems and traction. This process will take a year. We will then conduct trials and test operations which will usually require five more months. But we are planning to commission the first phase by March, 2016," said a DMRC spokesperson.

Once KMRL hands over funds, the Metro authority will set up a reverse clock at its Kochi office detailing major deadlines. DMRC had installed the reverse clock while executing different phases of the Delhi Metro. The Metro authority said they were confident about sticking to their schedule.

Since the Kochi Metro runs on elevated structures, it will not require the construction of complex underground structures and tunnels. This is a major time-saving factor.

"Unlike the work done in Delhi, DMRC is fully aware of the ground realities in Kerala. There could be unwanted and unexpected delays in land acquisition, availability of casting yards, utility shifting, traffic diversions, public protests and the like. We have taken into account all these challenges," he added.

While the state government and Metro authorities are gearing up to start the civil works, DMRC has already started preparations. The authority will soon start barricading the roads at Palarivattom. The have also begun test piling at Mamangalam.