A proposal has been made to construct skywalks linking Ernakulam Town and Thripunithura railway stations with their adjacent metro stations, to improve last-mile connectivity in Kochi. The move aims to boost seamless intermodal travel in the city. With both railway stations undergoing redevelopment, local authorities believe integrated access to Kochi Metro is essential for improving passenger convenience and promoting public transport use.
The proposal, initiated by the local MP, highlights the urgent need for dedicated skywalks between key railway and metro stations in Kochi. With Ernakulam Town undergoing a ₹150-crore redevelopment and Thripunithura station already upgraded, officials say it’s critical to ensure both projects are well-connected to nearby Kochi Metro stations. Skywalks would help reduce walking distances and simplify transfers for daily commuters.
Southern Railway has expressed interest in constructing skywalks but lacks the in-house technical capacity to implement them independently. The request seeks the technical expertise of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) to facilitate design and execution. Officials believe KMRL’s participation could speed up planning, secure approvals faster, and ensure design compatibility with metro station infrastructure already in place.
Currently, Thripunithura railway station lacks a dedicated pedestrian link to its adjacent metro station, creating a gap in intermodal integration. The absence of this connection affects ease of travel and reduces the overall utility of both stations. A well-designed skywalk could resolve this and significantly enhance footfall across both transit hubs, encouraging more people to shift from private vehicles to public transport.
Authorities have called for a joint meeting between KMRL, Southern Railway, local bodies, and MLAs to move the skywalk proposals forward. Such coordinated planning is viewed as crucial for building sustainable, commuter-friendly urban infrastructure. If successful, the Kochi model could become a blueprint for intermodal connectivity in other Indian cities, aligning with national goals for integrated and inclusive transport networks.
Integrated infrastructure like skywalks between rail and metro stations is vital for building smart, commuter-first cities. Kochi’s push for such connectivity could set a precedent for other urban centres. By combining redevelopment efforts with last-mile accessibility, the city stands to enhance mobility, cut traffic congestion, and promote eco-friendly travel. A collaborative approach between agencies is now essential to translate the vision of seamless public transport into a functioning reality.
