Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) and Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) are poised to partner on a metro rail extension plan, aiming to connect Cochin International Airport with the Kochi Metro network through an underground station at Nedumbassery. As part of Kochi Metro’s proposed Phase-III project, this 3 km underground metro line and station will connect Aluva to Angamaly, expanding metro accessibility and providing a seamless transit option for travelers.
The underground station’s design is inspired by other major airport metro links, such as Delhi Metro’s line connecting New Delhi to Indira Gandhi International Airport. Given the financial demands of constructing underground metro facilities, KMRL has approached CIAL to contribute to the project costs. Current discussions between CIAL and KMRL are progressing positively, with a proposed financial commitment of around Rs 1,000 crore from CIAL to help cover the cost of underground infrastructure.
The Phase-III extension is set to commence from Aluva, following National Highway-544 to Aleena Valavu near Akaparambu, and then diverting to an airport link via Kariyad-Airport-Mattoor Road. From there, the line will extend toward Angamaly along the Airport and MC Roads, ultimately progressing toward Thrissur along NH-544. The estimated project cost stands at Rs 8,000 crore, and the Kerala state government will serve as the implementing agency.
The project proposal has already been submitted to the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, with the approval process underway. However, some stakeholders have raised concerns regarding the project’s profitability and the need for more strategic planning. Critics suggest that before committing substantial funds to a new underground extension, a broader development plan for the Nedumbassery area should be explored to boost metro usage and ensure sustained footfall.