Thiruvananthapuram Metro DPR Delayed Over Population Criteria Dispute

Thiruvananthapuram Metro Project Faces Hurdles as DPR Submission Remains Uncertain

The much-anticipated Thiruvananthapuram Metro Rail project is encountering significant delays, with the submission of its detailed project report (DPR) now shrouded in uncertainty. Critical technical concerns regarding outdated population criteria have created a stalemate between the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL), the implementing agency for the project.

Outdated Population Benchmarks Spark Revision Demands

KMRL officials have highlighted that the existing population benchmarks used for metro project approvals are obsolete and fail to reflect the current urban growth patterns in Thiruvananthapuram. KMRL Managing Director Loknath Behera emphasized that this issue must be resolved through expert consultations to correct the criterion, enabling the DPR to be submitted to the government for final approval soon.

"The population criterion is old and needs to be corrected. Some agencies have undertaken similar revisions elsewhere. Once these corrections are made, DMRC will submit the report to KMRL and we will submit it to the govt. We will also discuss with the Union govt to resolve this technical issue," Behera stated in an interview.

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Feasibility and Funding at Stake Due to Data Discrepancies

This issue is particularly critical because population density and projected ridership are fundamental parameters in determining the feasibility of metro rail projects. Any reliance on outdated data or discrepancies could severely impact funding approvals and technical clearances at later stages. Sources indicate that alignment options are being revisited as part of efforts to address these concerns.

A proposed corridor from Neyyattinkara to Attingal is emerging as a viable alternative that might better satisfy population benchmarks, thereby improving the project's overall feasibility. "If the alignment is extended, the population benchmarks may be better satisfied, improving the project's overall feasibility," a source revealed.

Lessons from Past Metro Project Rejections

The urgency of resolving these technical issues is underscored by recent precedents. In November last year, the Centre returned the DPRs for Coimbatore and Madurai metro projects, explicitly citing noncompliance with population and ridership norms under the 2017 policy. Based on the 2011 census, those cities fell short of the minimum population required for metro sanction, leading the Centre to suggest alternative systems like the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS).

Thiruvananthapuram's Demographic Complexity

According to the latest demographic data, Thiruvananthapuram city's population remains below the typical metro threshold. The 2011 census recorded around 16.8 lakh residents, with updated estimates placing the core urban population at just over 10.5 lakh. However, the broader metropolitan region is projected to have over 23 lakh residents, complicating the criteria assessment and necessitating a nuanced approach.

Alignment and Political Dimensions Add to Delays

Despite these challenges, the state government and KMRL have not yet decided on revising the current alignment from Kazhakkoottam to Pappanamcode via the Medical College, MG Road, and Enchakkal. This route is designed to ensure connectivity with the airport and Technopark in three phases.

The DPR, prepared by DMRC, is a crucial document outlining the project's technical design, cost estimates, ridership projections, and implementation framework. Its submission has already been delayed multiple times, raising concerns among stakeholders and the public about the project's timeline.

Officials have indicated that the process may extend further, as inputs from urban transport planners, demographic experts, and policy advisers are being sought to ensure the revised proposal meets all regulatory and financial requirements.

Adding a political dimension to the delay, sources point out that the final decision on the metro project is likely to rest with the new government expected to assume office next month. The metro rail project has featured prominently in the election manifestos of all major political parties.

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"Given the scale and financial implications of the project, the incoming govt will play a decisive role in approving the final DPR and pushing the project forward," a senior government official associated with the project commented.

Project Background and Approved Alignment

The state government approved the alignment of the Thiruvananthapuram metro in November 2025 and tasked KMRL with preparing the DPR. KMRL initially stated it would complete the DPR and submit it to the state government within one-and-a-half months, but this deadline was not met.

The approved alignment covers a 31-kilometer stretch with 27 stations, connecting major administrative centers, residential hubs, and the expanding IT corridor. The project is expected to transform urban mobility in the capital, providing seamless, fast, and future-ready transit between Technopark and the city core.