The state government is expected to finalise the new alignment for the Thiruvananthapuram metro rail project later this month. Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL), the executing agency, recently submitted a preliminary study report based on the proposed alignment from Kazhakkoottam to East Fort via Sreekaryam and Medical College. The report is now under review by the finance department, which will forward it to the state cabinet for a final decision.

Biju Prabhakar, overseeing the project, confirmed that the state’s approval is anticipated soon. KMRL MD Loknath Behera noted that the agency would update the detailed project report (DPR) as per the government’s recommendations. "The new alignment, designed to minimise impact, is under active consideration. Upon approval, we’ll adjust the DPR and submit it for further approvals," Behera said.

To enhance ridership, the state had directed KMRL to reassess the alignment in July, as the original route proposed by DMRC was deemed impractical. The revised plan starts the metro line at Kazhakkoottam instead of Pallipuram due to NH-66’s narrow median, which complicates construction. Additionally, the route now includes the Medical College via Karyavattom and avoids elevated sections in heritage-sensitive areas such as Statue and Palayam. A new metro yard location has been suggested at the Karyavattom University campus.

KMRL had previously provided an executive summary of the DPR, presenting two main routes: one via Karyavattom-MG Road-Thampanoor-Killipalam, and another through NH-66. The full DPR’s submission was delayed by various factors, including election-related restrictions.

Separately, construction on the Sreekaryam flyover is set to begin this month, with Cherian Varkey Constructions Ltd mobilising its workforce on-site. (TOI)