Trials Begin on Kochi Metro’s Phase 1A to SN Junction

Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) on late Sunday night launched train trial runs (testing) on Phase 1A project’s 1.78 km section between Petta – Vadakkekotta – S.N. Junction.

KMRL’s team operated an Alstom train, nickamed Vaigai, at 5 kmph with the primary goal to check for Schedule of Dimensions (SOD) clearances and observe the train’s interaction with the civil structure to ensure there are no physical obstructions along the way.

This section was constructed by KEC-CCECC JV through a Rs. 299.87 crore contract awarded in October 2019 for Package KAC-2. Besides constructing the viaduct and 2 stations at Vadakkekotta & S.N. Junction, a new 2 lane bridge across Panamkutty River was also part of their scope.

Kochi Metro’s 3.94 km Phase 1 extension, comprising of Phase 1A & Phase 1B, is being directly executed by KMRL after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) completed the 25 km Phase 1 (Aluva – Petta) and left the city in 2020.

When Petta – S.N. Junction section becomes operational in the second half of 2022, Kochi Metro’s Aqua Line will become 26.78 km long with 24 elevated stations.

A further 1.163 km extension to Thrippunithura (Phase 1B) is under construction by KEC – VNC JV through a Rs. 162.98 crore contract (Package KAC-4) awarded in July 2020. I expect that section to become operational in Q4 2023.

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– TMRG