Commuters in Kochi faced severe traffic congestion on Thursday as ongoing Kochi Metro Phase II (Pink Line) construction work combined with monsoon rainfall created major bottlenecks across key city corridors, particularly around Palarivattom Junction and adjoining stretches. Long queues of vehicles were reported during peak hours, causing delays for office-goers, students, and public transport services.
According to reports, the congestion was primarily linked to Metro construction activities along the Phase II corridor connecting JLN Stadium and Kakkanad. Temporary lane restrictions, barricades, utility shifting work, and ongoing infrastructure development reduced road capacity at several locations. Heavy rain further slowed traffic movement and worsened conditions on already congested roads.
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) acknowledged the inconvenience caused to commuters and stated that steps were being taken to improve traffic flow. Officials said that relief measures, including adjustments to construction-related traffic arrangements and coordination with traffic police, were being implemented to ease congestion.
The traffic issues come as KMRL accelerates work on the Metro’s Pink Line extension toward Infopark. Recent construction activities, including utility pipeline installation and structural work, have required periodic traffic diversions and restrictions in parts of the city.
To address monsoon-related challenges, KMRL has already deployed additional traffic wardens, improved road signage, enhanced barricade visibility with reflectors, and established a monitoring committee to oversee traffic management along the construction corridor. Emergency response teams have also been stationed at critical locations to respond quickly to any incidents.
Motorists have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, use alternative routes where possible, and expect delays in areas affected by Metro construction. Traffic police continue to monitor the situation and make route adjustments based on congestion levels.
Despite the temporary disruption, officials maintain that the Phase II Metro project will significantly improve connectivity between Kochi city and Kakkanad’s IT corridor once completed, helping reduce long-term traffic congestion and improving urban mobility across the region.
News as reported
