KOCHI: Though the detailed project report (DPR) of the ambitious light metro rail projects being proposed in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode received in-principle approval from the State Government, the project is yet to get clearance from the Finance Department.
According to sources, the DPR has been cleared by the Planning Board and would be forwarded to the Finance Department which is the biggest hurdle.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and Kerala Monorail Corporation Ltd (KMCL) are highly apprehensive of the execution of the projects as the clearances are being delayed indefinitely.
The Board chaired by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy had approved the DPR more than a month ago.
KMCL Managing Director P.I.Sheik Pareeth said as per the current plan, the light metro projects ought to be tendered before March.
“We want the project to take off this fiscal year. If we are not able to kickstart the construction before May, the project is likely to face cost escalation.
As per information, the Planning Board which will forward the DPR to the Finance Department,” said Sheik Pareeth. Currently, the DMRC has put on hold all the procedures.
“Only after approval from the Finance Department, will the proposal be tabled in the Cabinet for the final nod,” said Sheik Pareeth.
