Kochi selects consultant for second phase of metro project
Kochi has selected engineering consultancy Systra as the general consultant for the second phase of its metro rail project.
The Kochi metro is a rapid transit system serving the city of Kochi. Opened to the public within four years of starting construction, the metro line has gained the reputation of being one of the fastest completed metro projects in India and the country’s first system to seamlessly integrate rail, road and water transport networks.
The first phase was estimated to cost $730 million, with the second phase encompassing an 11.2 kilometre elevated line from the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium metro station to Infopark via Kakkanad.
Continuing its longstanding relationship with Systra, the French-origin engineering and consulting group specialised in public transport and mobility solutions has been selected as general consultant for Line 2 (Pink Line) of the metro. The consulting firm previously conducted the detailed studies for the systems on Line 2.
Systra will assess the proposals put forth by the design consultant and contractors. The firm will also ensure quality and safety standards are upheld throughout the construction process.
The appointment of the general consultant is considered a significant stage before beginning the construction phase. Civil works on the new line are expected to begin before Onam, a major annual Indian harvest festival starting towards the end of August and celebrated mainly in the state of Kerala, where Kochi is located.
Notably, Systra won the bid not only due to its lowest financial bid for the contract, but also thanks to its highest technical score.
The metro project is deeply involved in sustainable initiatives, such as the use of non-motorized transport corridors in the city, installation of solar panels for power and vertical garden on every sixth metro pillar.
