There is good news for the people living in Kochi. Yes, as per a recent update, the proposed Kochi Phase 3 extension aims to connect Aluva to Angamaly via Cochin International Airport. This will be done because of Kerala's upcoming first underground metro corridor which will also be a seamless multi-modal transit hub integrating air, rail and metro networks.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 - Underground Metro and Transit Hub
Unlike Kochi metro Phase 1 and Phase 2, the Phase 3 is likely to have an 8 km of underground metro corridor. Once completed, it will be a historic milestone for Kerala. As per the latest update for Kochi Metro Phase 3, the DPR for the project is currently being finalised. It proposes an underground stretch near the airport area, including -
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An underground metro station near Taj Cochin International Airport Hotel
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Direct underground tunnel access to airport terminals
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Possible tunnel connectivity to the upcoming airport railway station at Nedumbasserry
Also, this proposed transit tunnel hub would allow the metro passengers to directly enter Cochin International Airport terminals. And on the other hand, air travellers will get access to the metro without any surface transporation. But the authorities are also thinking about cost-effective alternatives like above-ground covered walkway too.
Why an Underground Transit Hub?
An underground transit hub is considered in the DPR to minimise surface disruption, tackle land-availability challenges near the airport zone, and facilitate multi-modal connectivity. Such integrated stations are increasingly part of modern transit planning, enhancing convenience and passenger experience, especially for long-distance and airport bound commuters.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 - Flood Concerns and Engineering Safeguards
One major concern for the construction work is the waterlogging. The 2018 Kerala floods, which fully submerged the airport, remain a cautionary reminder. KMRL sources said that since underground rail is part of Metro Phase III, steps to prevent flooding and waterlogging will definitely be part of the DPR.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 - Four Alignment Options Under Review
The 30-km Aluva-Angamaly extension is being studied by consultant Systra MVA, with four possible alignments under consideration. The final route will be chosen based on technical feasibility, land acquisition challenges, cost implications, and projected ridership. Here’s a quick overview of the same.
| Alignment |
Type |
Route Description |
Key Features |
| 1 (Hybrid Model) |
Hybrid (Elevated + Underground) |
Elevated from Aluva to Kariad, Underground through airport zone; Elevated again to Karayamparambu (Angamaly) |
Balances cost, disruption, and airport access |
| 2 (Fully Elevated, Airport Bypass) |
Fully Elevated |
Entirely elevated along NH 544, Bypasses airport |
Less preferred due to limited airport accessibility |
| 3 (Fully Elevated via Airport) |
Fully Elevated |
Elevated from Aluva to Angamaly, Includes airport connectivity |
Similar to current metro structure |
| 4 (Fully Underground) |
Fully Underground |
Entire stretch underground |
Minimal surface disruption |
Key Deciding Factor: Airport connectivity is pivotal per National Metro Rail Policy norms, as the corridor may not meet population density criteria alone, favoring alignments 1 and 3.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 Proposed Station List
The preferred alignment envisions 15 stations. These are as follows -
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Thottakkattukara
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Kunnumpuram
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Parambayam
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Nedumbassery
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Athani
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Kariyad
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Airport Railway Station
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Airport
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Nayathode
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Kavarapparambu
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Areekkal Junction
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L.F. Hospital
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Angamaly Town
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Kothakulangara
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Karayamparambu
Stakeholders in Angamaly are pushing for the metro to run closer to the National Highway after the airport to better serve:
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Telk (Transformers and Electricals Kerala Ltd)
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Angamaly railway station
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Municipal bus stand
Public consultations have begun, with elected representatives emphasising that airport connectivity remains mandatory.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 - Cost and Timeline
The project cost for Kochi metro Phase 3 is expected to go over Rs 8,000 crore. Earlier transport studies estimated Rs 3,115 crore for a shorter version (Aluva to Kothakulangara). Also, by 2031, 1.12 lakh passengers are expected to travel via the metro. However, the expanded airport-focused version will cost substantially more. The final DPR is expected by April 2026, after which construction planning will begin.
Kochi Metro Phase 3 Real Estate Impact
Although the DPR is still under review and exact details will evolve, early signalling of this connectivity has several potential implications for real estate around Kochi. These include -
1. Areas near integrated transit hubs particularly around Aluva, the airport corridor and Angamaly are likely to see stronger appreciation in land prices and housing prices due to improved accessibility.
2. Better connectivity to the airport, key industrial and business areas, and Kochi city centre can make peripheral localities more attractive for -
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Residential development
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Retail and mixed-use projects
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Office/IT spaces, especially near major stations, where footfall rises
3. Transit enhancements typically attract infrastructure upgrades (roads, utilities, services) and can lead to planned development of new satellite townships or expansion of existing ones - e.g., there can be an upward trend in property prices in Nedumbassery.
In a Nutshell
If executed as envisioned, the airport area could become a premier integrated transport zone where metro, airport and railway function as a single mobility ecosystem. Surface land is preserved for commercial expansion. And feeder bus networks strengthen last-mile connectivity.
For commuters from Aluva, Angamaly and northern suburbs, this line would dramatically reduce travel time and congestion. For air travellers, it would eliminate dependence on road transport. It won’t be an understatement to say that Phase III is not just an extension - it represents Kochi’s most ambitious step yet toward becoming a fully integrated, future-ready transit city.
