The first phase of Kochi Metro, 13-km stretch from Aluva to Palarivattom, is all set for its inauguration as authorities are awaiting confirmation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to flag off the services soon.
What makes Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) special?
Fastest metro project to get the clearance certificates in India
KMRL has become the fastest metro project in the country to receive mandatory safety certificates for commencement of its commercial operations.
Also read: Who will inaugurate Kochi Metro? PM Modi or CM Pinarayi Vijayan?
"The first phase of Kochi Metro Project is the first of its kind to get the fastest clearance compared to other metro projects in India. It's so overwhelming to share with you that Kochi Metro is also the first metro in India to cover a longest distance of 13 km in its first phase," said KMRL MD Elias George.
KMRL is the first government-owned company in India to formally appoint 23 transgender as employees. They have been trained in numerous skills --hospitality, front office, security, computers and counselling.
Women empowerment
It is understood that over 500 women from Kudumbasree Mission have been employed for management and maintenance of the metro services that includes customer relations, housekeeping, parking management and ticketing.
Women loco pilots
Seven women have also been appointed as loco pilots and they have started operating trial runs on the 13-km long corridor after three months' training in Bengaluru.
Passenger Emergency Intercom
Unlike other metro services in India, Kochi Metro trains will have Passenger Emergency Intercom through which passengers can communicate with train operator in case of emergency.
Theme based stations
There are 11 stations in phase one of Kochi Metro and six major stations are designed with different themes. Western Ghats is the theme assigned for Kalamassery station inspired by the monsoons in the Ghats with plenty of rain drops and green leaves to highlight its beauty.
Sneak peek: What does Aluva Metro station looks like from inside? Check photos
1. Aluva
2. Pulinchodu
3. Companypady
4. Ambattukavu
5. Muttom
6. Kalamassery
7. Cochin University
8. Pathadipalam
9. Edapally
10. Changampuzha Park
11. Palarivattom
Solar energy
Solar panels have been installed in all the stations to generate 2.3 megawatt electricity, and to meet half of the stations' power demand.
Ornamental plants are grown in the medians and pillars of Kochi metro
Now, aren't you excited to travel in Kochi Metro?
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