Extension of the Kochi Metro Project from Pettah to Tripunithura was under the consideration of the Centre, Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu said here today.
He was speaking to reporters after reviewing progress of the Rs 5,181 crore project of about 25.612 km in the Aluva-Pettah stretch.
On the proposed second phase extension to Kochi airport and Kakkanad, he said government was inclined to support the proposal, but only after their viability and financial feasibility are worked out.
"We will be inclined to support the scheme, provided the details are worked out and then the viablity and financial feasibility has to be studied," he said.
Naidu said Kochi is a prestigious city and can become a smart city also. Expansion of the metro will add to its beauty and raise its importance as it was providing livelihood to many people across the state, he said.
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd Managing Director, Elias George informed the minister about the issues on funding.
Though KRML had sought Rs 800 crore as equity this year, the Centre had so far given only Rs 400 crore, KMRL sources said. KMRL has sought for Rs 400 crore more.
KMRL also submitted to Naidu a Rs 57 crore project to revive water transport, which has already got the state government's sanction.
A Kochi Metro press release later said Naidu agreed to consider the plan, for which KMRL has submitted a Rs 52 crore project report to the Ministry.
Naidu said since JNNURM no longer exists, the proposal would be considered in the new scheme, to be announced soon.
The Minister was also presented with KMRL's plan to develop a state-of-the-art eco-friendly smart city within the city at Kakkanad in about 18 acres.
Naidu also said he was happy to note that the project would be completed within the stipulated time schedule and also the original estimate and expressed complete satisfaction with progress of the work.
