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10 Dec 2024
Ten months after relocating P&T Colony residents to GCDA's Mundamveli apartment complex under the Life Mission housing scheme, structural damage persists despite initial waterproofing. Residents began protests following unresolved leakages reported during May rains, demanding urgent repairs. GCDA cited design flaws and thermal expansion cracks as causes but delayed major repairs pending state technical committee approval for a INR 25 lakh proposal. Minor repair tenders are in progress, while state inspections continue. The situation highlights gaps in public housing project oversight, accountability, and maintenance. Authorities must expedite approvals, ensure durable fixes, and implement better planning to regain public trust.Read more
04 Dec 2024
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a probe into a INR 96 crore loan scam at Angamaly Urban Cooperative Society, where 422 fraudulent loans were granted using forged property title deeds, often without the knowledge of property owners. The state crime branch, which began investigating earlier, found multiple instances of loans issued without proper documentation and in the names of non-members. Investors have also filed complaints regarding unreturned deposits. The FIR revealed the malpractice dated back to 2002, highlighting systemic fraud and mismanagement. The ED's involvement signals heightened efforts to uncover the full extent of the scam and ensure accountability.Read more
04 Dec 2024
A recent study by Cusat, SACON, and FLAME University highlights an alarming 126% increase in built-up areas across Kochi's taluks between 2001 and 2020, far exceeding the global average of 20%. Urbanisation has caused a 57.56% loss of wetlands and a 15% decline in cropland, triggering severe ecological imbalances. Pollution, declining biodiversity, and near-extinction of species like the Soapnut tree (only 50 remain) underscore the crisis. Researchers warn of rising health issues and ecosystem degradation. The findings call for sustainable urban planning to balance development and conservation, ensuring long-term environmental and social health for Kochi.Read more
03 Dec 2024
The Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) is set to begin demarcating boundaries for a 300-acre land pooling project for the Phase III campus of Infopark. Following a recent workshop, GCDA plans to form a dedicated team of revenue officials to facilitate the land acquisition process, which will include consultations with landowners unfamiliar with land pooling. The new campus aims to promote carbon neutrality, water self-sufficiency, and comprehensive waste management, while also providing enhanced connectivity and diverse facilities. Infopark, which has grown significantly since its establishment in 2004, continues to expand its footprint in the region.Read more
28 Nov 2024
Kochi Metro Rail Limited's (KMRL) Phase II extension to Kakkanad faces delays due to land acquisition challenges, with the 11(1) notification's validity extended by six months. Covering 11.2 km, this critical link to the IT hub includes stations like Palarivattom, Kakkanad Junction, and InfoPark. While preparatory works, including soil testing and piling, are progressing, unresolved land disputes hinder the issuance of the 19(1) notification for most stations, potentially affecting the 20-month completion target. KMRL emphasizes the project's importance for reducing traffic and boosting connectivity. The delay highlights the need for efficient land acquisition processes for timely infrastructure development.Read more
20 Nov 2024
Residents of Chander Kunj Army Towers in Vyttila have filed a writ petition seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged irregularities in the construction of the twin towers. Following structural defects and multiple inspections deeming the towers unsafe, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) recommended their demolition. Petitioners, including retired Army officers Major Prince Jose and Captain Erinjeri Paul, claim corruption and malpractices led to the buildings' flaws. Despite multiple FIRs and court interventions, little progress has been made. Residents are urging swift action to prosecute those responsible and resolve the ongoing uncertainty about evacuation and compensation.Read more
05 Nov 2024
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is improving public transport in Kochi with the construction of a new Metro station at Vazhakkala as part of the Pink Line project, which will connect Palarivattom to Kakkanad Junction. The land acquisition process for Vazhakkala has begun, with notifications issued for approximately 0.2078 hectares in Kanayannur taluk. The Pink Line will feature 11 stations over 11.2 kilometres, serving key areas like Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and Infopark, enhancing travel efficiency. KMRL's expansion aligns with sustainable urban development goals, aiming to reduce traffic congestion and promote public transport use while contributing to local economic growth through improved connectivity.Read more
04 Nov 2024
Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) and Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) are set to collaborate on a 3-kilometre underground metro line and station at Nedumbassery, as part of Kochi Metro's Phase-III expansion from Aluva to Angamaly. The proposed underground station will connect directly to the airport, similar to Delhi Metro's Airport Express Line. This extension, which follows National Highway-544 and key local roads, is projected to cost around INR 8,000 crore, with Cial expected to contribute about INR 1,000 crore for the underground section. Approval from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is awaited, with cost-sharing details under review by Cial's board.Read more
17 Oct 2024
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) will soon begin constructing two new stations-Cochin SEZ and Chittethukara-on the Phase II Pink Line, connecting JLN Stadium to Kakkanad. The land acquisition process for these stations has been approved, with a total of 0.416 hectares to be acquired. The Pink Line, featuring 11 stations, has a project cost of INR 1,957.05 crore. Construction work on Infopark station has already started, and the viaduct contract has been awarded to Afcons for INR 1,141.32 crore, with a completion timeline of 20 months.Read more
04 Oct 2024
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has proposed a new Thiruvananthapuram Metro line from Kazhakkoottam Junction to Putharikandam Ground, spanning 14.9 km. This shift follows the scrapping of plans for a Pallippuram starting point, influenced by potential NHAI objections regarding road excavations. KMRL's Managing Director, Loknath Behera, highlighted the advantages of the new alignment, which connects key areas such as Technopark and the legislative assembly, and suggested future extensions to Pallippuram, Kudappanakunnu, and Neyyattinkara in phase II. The project’s phase I is estimated to cost INR 4,673 crores, with KRTL having been dissolved in 2022.Read more
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23 Sep 2024
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) began work on the flyover and CEZ Metro station for the Phase II Pink Line project last Saturday, with Industry Minister P Rajeev presiding over the inauguration. Afcons Infrastructure Ltd started the piling for the 11.2 km flyover, part of the INR 1,957.05 crore project, which had a 20-month completion timeline. The entire Phase II was expected to be finished in two years. KMRL had secured INR 914 crore in financial support from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Preliminary work, including test pilings and soil testing, had been completed. System and signaling installation followed, though alternative route plans to alleviate traffic disruption were still pending.Read more
04 Sep 2024
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved a INR 914 crore loan for Kochi Metro's Phase II, specifically for the Pink Line, connecting JLN Stadium to Infopark. Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) initiated construction in July with state funds due to delayed AIIB funding, and will sign the loan contract in October. Afcons Infrastructure Ltd will build the 11.2 km via duct for INR 1,141 crore, aiming to complete it within 20 months. The Pink Line, costing INR 1,957 crore in total, includes ten new stations, with system and signaling work expected to finish four months afterward.Read more
02 Feb 2024
NBCC (India) Limited, the government's construction arm, is set to embark on a INR 2000 crore mixed-use project in Kochi, Kerala, for developing a 17.9-acre land parcel owned by the Kerala State Housing Board. The project, planned in two phases, will include a mixed-use commercial-cum-residential complex, showcasing a total built-up area of 3,92,600 sq m. Designed as a mini smart city with sustainable features, including solar power and rain harvesting, the development aims to enhance Kochi's urban landscape and contribute to economic and social growth.Read more
29 Jan 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three key infrastructure projects in Kochi, Kerala, collectively valued at over Rs 4,000 crore. The projects, including the New Dry Dock at Cochin Shipyard, the International Ship Repair Facility, and the LPG Import Terminal, align with Modi's vision to revolutionize India's ports, shipping, and waterways. The Prime Minister celebrated the positive impact on Kerala's development, anticipating significant boosts to shipbuilding, repairing, and the LPG sector. Modi acknowledged the transformative reforms in the sector over the past decade, foreseeing Asia's largest ship repair centre in Kochi and extended wishes for Kerala's continued rapid development.Read more
25 Nov 2023
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is set to begin the Phase III expansion of its network, focusing on an essential airport line. The work is expected to begin at the start of next year. This follows the completion of a comprehensive mobility plan by a Delhi-based consultancy. The project includes two proposed lines, enhancing connectivity to Cochin International Airport. The revised detailed project report (DPR), reflecting updated population and passenger flow data, will be submitted to the state government soon. This expansion is expected to significantly boost ridership and profitability for the metro system.Read more
23 Nov 2023
Kochi is advancing the construction of two housing complexes designed for slum dwellers in West Kochi. The Thuruthy complex, led by the Kochi Corporation and financially supported by Cochin Smart Mission Ltd (CSML), is utilizing approximately Rs 18 crore from Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) and Rs 21 crore from CSML. The Mattancherry complex, overseen by CSML, is a ground-plus-13-floor development costing Rs 44 crore. Despite delays in approvals from the Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority for the Mattancherry project, the set completion date remains steadfast at February 2024. The timely commissioning of these complexes is crucial for urban development and addressing housing challenges in Kochi, underscoring the need for efficient project management and adherence to deadlines.Read more
21 Nov 2023
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is taking a proactive approach to the construction of Chembumukku and Padamugal stations along the Phase II line. If there are delays in land acquisition for these stations, KMRL plans to proceed with the construction of the other eight stations. The government has provided administrative sanction for land acquisition, but opposition from residents may delay decisions for Chembumukku and Padamugal. KMRL is exploring vacant government land as an alternative. The consideration to start construction on other stations while awaiting decisions reflects KMRL's commitment, with a focus on innovative solutions to mitigate potential challenges and streamline the process.Read more
09 Nov 2023
The revenue department in Kochi has issued an 11(1) notification for land acquisition for five metro stations on the Phase II line of the Kochi Metro, with two more notifications expected soon. The proposed stations at Palarivattom Junction, Kakkanad, Cochin SEZ, Chittethukara, and Kinfra will require the acquisition of 0.9544 hectares of land from Edappally South and Kakkanad villages. KMRL aims to create eco-friendly, modern architectural designs for the stations. Construction work is planned to be expedited, with a precast method for station construction. There are some concerns about the proximity of the St Michael's Church to the metro alignment which had earlier led to protests.Read more
27 Sep 2023
The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has initiated the process of leasing 17.43 acres of land within the proposed Bliss City project in Kakkanad. This move is intended to expedite the development of the mixed-use project, which originally included plans for a medical city and entertainment hub. The decision to lease this portion of the land came after investors showed interest in residential development, which did not align with KMRL's vision. The remaining 14 acres of land within Bliss City are under discussion, with the possibility of them being used for IT infrastructure to support Infopark's needs.Read more
13 Sep 2023
Kochi Corporation is contemplating reclassifying property tax categories based on road width. The existing system, in place since 1995, categorizes properties as primary, secondary, or tertiary. Primary properties have access to roads over five metres wide, secondary properties to narrower roads, and tertiary properties to pathways or no access. The re-evaluation is prompted by the city's development and aims to increase revenue. Kochi Corporation seeks to generate more income through tax avenues and collect funds owed by the state government. The move is essential as the corporation currently relies on central and state government funds for projects.Read more
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