Title - Japanese team suggests tech upgrades for Kochi Metro

The suggestions include techniques to reduce vibration and noise from the tracks.

KOCHI, DEC. 2:  The 13-member technical team deputed by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has suggested some technology upgrades to Kochi Metro Rail project.

The suggestions included techniques to reduce vibration and noise from the tracks.

Leader of the team Takeshi Fukayama told reporters here that upgraditon of technology for the metro’s rolling stock is to prevent congestion on trains. Such systems are in vogue in Japan, he said.

The Japanese team also suggested more intermodal connectivity for the metro by linking it with the other modes of transport such as railway, buses and waterways. The JICA team also offered technical assistance for the metro’s procurement packages.

Move is already afoot to integrate metro rail with bus, rail and water transport at Vytilla.

A report on the team’s Kochi visit has been submitted to Elias George, Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL).

George expressed the hope that the JICA loan component would be through within one year. A loan amount of Rs 2,174 crore is expected from JICA for the Rs 5,182-crore project.

George said Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s involvement in the project would be decided following negotiations by a committee comprising the Union Urban Development Secretary and the Chief Secretaries of Delhi and Kerala.

The JICA team had asked to do an environmental and social impact assessment of the project and the KMRL will invite bids to conduct a world-class study, he added.