THIRUVANANTHAPURAM (Metro Rail News): The proposed Thiruvananthapuram Metro could become part of a wider transport network for the city. Its DPR recommends major multimodal transport hubs at Pappanamcode and Anayara. These hubs could connect Metro services with road, rail, air and possibly water transport, making passenger transfers easier.
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) submitted the DPR to the Kerala government with technical support from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The first phase will cover 31 km from Pappanamcode to Enchakkal, with 27 stations. The project could cost around ₹8,000 crore.
Pappanamcode planned as southern mobility hub
The DPR identifies Pappanamcode as an important transport hub, which is located at the southern end of the proposed Metro corridor. The plan includes large parking facilities to support a park-and-ride system. Commuters travelling from Neyyattinkara, Balaramapuram and Parassala could park their vehicles at the hub and continue their journey towards the city by Metro. The proposal aims to reduce the number of private vehicles travelling into central Thiruvananthapuram.
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Anayara could connect five modes of transport
The larger multimodal hub has been proposed at Anayara. Its location gives it access to several existing and planned transport networks. The area lies close to NH 66, Kochuveli railway station, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and the Parvathy Puthanar waterway. The DPR envisions Anayara as a potential meeting point for:
- Metro rail
- Road transport
- Indian Railways
- Air travel
- Future water transport
The proposal also keeps space for the possible development of water-based public transport services in the future.
31 km elevated corridor across key city locations
The first phase will connect Pappanamcode with Enchakkal through several important residential, commercial and employment areas. The proposed alignment will cover:
Pappanamcode – Karamana – Thampanoor – Secretariat – Palayam – Medical College – Ulloor – Sreekaryam – Kazhakkoottam – Technopark – Akkulam – Kochuveli – Airport – Enchakkal.
The current proposal plans the entire Metro corridor as an elevated system.
Kazhakkoottam to house Metro maintenance facility
The DPR has proposed a 20 acre Metro yard and maintenance facility at Kazhakkoottam. Its location near Technopark could support the operational requirements of the corridor and provide space for train maintenance and other Metro facilities. The proposed stations will include lifts and escalators, along with improved parking facilities to make access easier for passengers.
Also Read: DMRC submits DPR of Thiruvananthapuram Metro Project