Thiruvananthapuram: The detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed Metro rail in the city is likely to face more delay, with officials indicating that revisions to alignment slowed its completion. The DPR is being prepared by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), while Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is the project implementing agency.KMRL earlier expressed confidence that DPR would be submitted within one-and-a-half months after state govt granted administrative sanction to Phase I alignment in Nov 2025, but that timeline now appears difficult to meet. However, sources said that changes in alignment, reportedly aimed at optimising ridership, reducing land-acquisition challenges and improving integration with major transport hubs, necessitated fresh technical evaluations, population criteria and modifications to the DPR. KMRL managing director Loknath Behera confirmed that the agency was closely monitoring the progress as it waited for DMRC to submit the final DPR. “We expect the DPR to be ready by this month-end. However, I am not sure. Hopefully, we can submit the DPR to state govt next month for approval,” Behera told TOI.Even if DPR is finalised and submitted next month, procedural hurdles may prevent immediate approval. Model code of conduct for the upcoming Kerala assembly elections is expected to come into force any time next month. If so, state govt won’t be able to take major policy decisions, including granting administrative sanction to large infrastructure projects. Hence the Metro project may not receive govt’s nod in the present tenure, sources said.The proposed Thiruvananthapuram Metro is envisioned as a major urban mobility solution for the rapidly expanding city. The initial plan reportedly proposed a corridor connecting key stretches from Technocity in the north to Pallichal in the south, passing through major commercial and residential hubs. The project is expected to connect the existing railway network, bus terminals and other public transport systems to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable mobility.The alignment was later modified from Kazhakkoottam to Pappanamcode via Kariavattom and Sreekaryam, and another alignment through NH 66 till Enchakkal, connecting the airport and Technopark.Preliminary estimates in earlier concept reports pegged the project cost at several thousand crore rupees, with funding expected through a mix of state and central govt support, along with possible external assistance. Officials indicated that only after state cabinet approved the DPR, it would be forwarded to Centre for appraisal and financial clearance.Urban transport experts note that delays in DPR preparation could push back the overall timeline by several months, as central govt approvals, funding arrangements and tendering processes would follow only after state-level clearance.The Metro proposal has been under discussion for several years as traffic congestion in Thiruvananthapuram worsens amid rapid urbanisation and vehicular growth. With elections approaching, stakeholders fear that further administrative delays could slow the project momentum.
