Future-Ready Transit: Kochi Eyes Introduction Of Light Trams

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is contemplating innovative solutions to enhance urban mobility, with a particular focus on the proposed 'metro neo' extension.

As KMRL awaits a Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) for the city, discussions are set to take place between KMRL officials and representatives from a firm specialising in 'light trams'.

The meeting aims to explore the feasibility of deploying these 'light trams' along the 4-km MG Road-Menaka-Park Avenue Road-Hospital Road-MG Road loop line, as well as in other corridors where traditional metro construction might pose challenges such as substantial land acquisition and high capital investment.

Both 'metro neo' and 'light trams' are touted as cost-effective and sustainable alternatives to traditional metro systems, capable of accommodating a similar number of commuters while offering greater flexibility in deployment and operation.

If realised, these 'light trams', akin to an improvised version of bus-rapid transport systems, could serve as a feeder service for the Kochi Metro, thereby boosting ridership along the Aluva-MG Road-Thripunithura phase-1 corridor. Additionally, they could integrate seamlessly with Water Metro ferries operating from the High Court terminal, reports The Hindu.

Similar light tram systems are already operational in places like Brisbane, prompting discussions on their potential applicability in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode, alongside Kochi. The firm has initiated contact with KMRL regarding this initiative.

KMRL had previously been considering 'metro neo' as another mass rapid transport system (MRTS) option for the loop line and the Thripunithura-Infopark corridor. However, a decision on the most suitable system for the city, considering factors such as capital investment savings and operational efficiency, will be made in the near future.

The concept of 'metro neo' had emerged in 2022, based on data analysis of commuter travel patterns, highlighting the need for enhanced connectivity beyond MG Road to populous areas like High Court Junction, Marine Drive, Ernakulam Market, Broadway commercial hub, and Park Avenue Road.