PM lays foundation stone for Kochi Metro

“Metro rail is just one component of an efficient public transport system. We need to build in our cities multimodal transport systems that efficiently integrate different modes of public transport like buses and trains,” said Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh delivering his speech during foundation-laying function of the Kochi Metro.
“Kochi’s transport infrastructure is already under severe stress, with the demand for travel having risen steeply in recent years. The Metro would provide this area with a modern mass transport system, not only making it convenient for the residents to commute, but also further facilitating Kochi’s overall social and economic development,” he adds.
Kochi will be the 8th Indian city with a Metro network under construction. The newly-sanctioned Kochi metro line will run 25 km from Alwaye to Petta. This project will cost more than Rs 5180 crore, out of which the Central government’s share will be about Rs 1000 crore.Emphasising the Government’s efforts in bringing more cities under Metro rail ambit, the Prime Minister said, “We have taken a decision to support preparation of Detailed Project Reports for Metro Rail projects in all the 19 cities with population of more than 2 million people. Detailed Project Reports for such projects have already been prepared for 12 cities.”
Metro Rail projects are currently under implementation in 7 Indian cities. These would cover a network of length 476 km at a cost of more than Rs 1.15 lakh crore. The Delhi Metro is under operation carrying about 22 lakh people every day.

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