Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is on track to finalise its updated Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) within the next three months. This revamped plan is poised to shape the city’s transport infrastructure for the next 30 years, aligning with the latest guidelines from the Centre which recommend revisions every five years.
The CMP, initially devised in 2017, is receiving a significant overhaul by the Urban Mass Transit Company (UMTC). This updated strategy is set to be presented to both state and Union governments for approval, outlining a roadmap to accommodate Kochi’s burgeoning growth and development needs. A cornerstone of the CMP includes an ambitious Rs 20,000 crore investment, earmarked for a range of projects spanning short-term, medium-term, and long-term objectives. Notable among these is the proposed extension of the metro line to the Kochi airport, with further plans to connect it to GIFT City in Angamaly. This extension is expected to enhance connectivity and support Kochi’s evolution into a high-growth urban centre. KMRL has initiated a comprehensive feedback collection process for the draft CMP, actively engaging with stakeholders across various sectors. This includes political leaders, government officials, city development agencies, the business community, and the general public. The draft CMP has been made available on KMRL’s website, with officials encouraging reviews and comments to be submitted via email over the next month.
The draft plan highlights the expansion of Kochi’s Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS), which currently spans 28.12 km, with an additional 11.3 km under construction as part of Phase 2. The CMP envisions the development of dedicated guideways to significantly reduce travel times and alleviate urban congestion. With its strategic focus on enhancing mobility and infrastructure, the updated CMP is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Kochi’s future, addressing both current and emerging transportation challenges while positioning the city for sustained growth.
