Kochi Metro Rail on fast track

KOCHI: In an attempt to fast track metro rail associated projects in Kochi, Chief Minster Oommen Chandy on Sunday announced Rs 25 crore for developing the approach road for Pulleppady Overbridge from Kaloor-Kadavanthra Road to MG Road. A decision was also made to carry on with advance possession of land and to complete the project in six months. Speaking at the meeting called to discuss the implementation of metro rail, the Chief Minister said a special package would be implemented for land acquisition for the Metro Rail project. Before announcing an amount for developing the Pulleppady approach road, the Chief Minister asked Mayor Tony Chammany whether it could be completed in six months’ time. As for the complaints from various public forums regarding the hasty moves to demolish the North Overbridge, Oommen Chandy assured the complainants that proper rehabilitation would be made before demolishing the ROB. “There should be no anxieties over the Metro Rail project. The land acquisition for the project would be done as per the new land acquisition policy. Land owners will be given the market rate for the acquired land. Only after getting the money do they need to part with the land,” the Chief Minister said. He said that as part of the special rehabilitation package for those giving land for metro rail and associated projects, they would be given 4 to 5 cents of land with electricity, water and road facilities. Referring to the complaints by merchants on eviction for metro rail projects, Oommen Chandy said assistance would be given to them for setting up shops and for other alternative options.“The government will relax the building rules for those who give a portion of their land for the project and want to carry out construction in the remaining portion. Before demolishing the North ROB, the government would ensurethat those evicted for the project are rehabilitated,” he said. The next Cabinet would consider issuing Rs 48 crore for construction of the overbridge at Atlantis. Development of the Kaloor Bypass road towards Seaport-Airport has been included in the Smart City-associated road projects.