Work on the second phase of Kochi Metro, extending to Infopark and SmartCity via Kakkanad, is expected to complete by December 2026, said KMRL managing director Loknath Behera. An earlier plan to commission the first five stations by June will not be met. KMRL aims to complete civil and electrical works on the stretch from JLN Stadium to Padamugal by June. Major obstacles include delays in piling caused by detection of a gas pipeline between Alinchuvadu and Padamugal, and unavailability of land for Chembumukku and Padamugal stations. KMRL is completing works in free stretches and issuing tenders for tracks. The State government delayed approval of approximately ₹1,200 crore loan from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank; Cabinet approval expected soon. KMRL signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, for joint research on sustainable urban mobility and public transport systems.

Work on Kochi Metro Phase II, the 11.2-km Pink Line from JLN Stadium in Kaloor to Infopark in Kakkanad, has accelerated with the first U-girder placed on Friday between pillars 284 and 285 on Infopark Expressway. The 170-tonne girder, fabricated at Kalamassery casting yard, was transported by multi-axle trailer and positioned using heavy-duty cranes.

KMRL aims to open the first reach, including five stations (Palarivattom Junction, Palarivattom Bypass, Chembumukku, Vazhakkala, Padamugal) plus JLN Stadium, by June 30, 2026. Full completion targeted for December 31, 2026.

Progress to date:

• 65 pillars built along SEZ, Alinchuvadu and Vazhakkala
• 1,135 piles completed (875 for viaduct, 260 for stations)
• 100 U-girders, 72 A-girders, 100 pier caps completed
• Girder placement to continue along Infopark Expressway
• Track construction tendering underway

Phase II alignment begins at JLN Stadium. Two new tracks will initially use space beside existing Aluva corridor; Infopark-bound line passes above existing Aluva line near Kurishupally at Palarivattom; returning line runs on right side of Aluva line for approximately one-kilometre section. Foundation stone laid September 2022; original 2025 deadline revised to December 2026.