Kerala metro authority directed to tackle construction-zone traffic congestion

Officials from the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) have been instructed to coordinate closely with the Motor Vehicles Department to mitigate traffic problems affecting commuters in areas where metro construction is underway, according to the district collector's directive.

The traffic disruptions are most acute along the corridor between St. Martin de Porres Church in Palarivattom and Vazhakkala, a major commercial and residential stretch that experiences heavy daily vehicular movement. Construction activities at multiple metro worksites in this area have created bottlenecks, leading to prolonged delays and congestion.

The district administration's intervention comes after mounting complaints from residents and commuters about deteriorating traffic conditions. The directive mandates that KMRL and the Motor Vehicles Department develop a coordinated action plan to manage traffic flow during peak hours and implement measures to minimize disruption to the public.

KMRL has been undertaking rapid expansion of the metro rail network across Kochi to improve urban mobility. However, construction activities have necessitated road closures and lane reductions, exacerbating traffic challenges in already congested areas. Officials are expected to explore measures such as improved signage, traffic diversion plans, and coordinated work schedules to reduce the impact on commuters.

The administration's move reflects efforts to balance infrastructure development with ensuring smooth traffic movement, a persistent challenge in Indian cities experiencing simultaneous metro rail construction projects.