Kochi is considering a new twist on an old idea — trams. While cities like Kolkata have let go of their heritage tramways, Kochi is now looking at bringing back the system, this time with a modern, light-rail version that could ease congestion without burning a hole in the public purse.
The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has revived its proposal for a light tram network and is moving ahead with early groundwork. The KMRL board has given the go-ahead for a feasibility study and is preparing to seek approval and funding from the Kerala state government.
The first route under consideration is a 6.2-kilometre stretch connecting MG Road and Thevara, passing through the High Court and Shanmugham Road. Officials say this corridor was identified as a practical starting point during early assessments.
“The board has cleared the feasibility study for implementing the light tram project. Kochi is the first city under consideration,” a senior KMRL official said, without committing to any timeline.
The idea of light trams isn’t new — KMRL floated the concept in early 2023. Things gained traction when Swiss-based HESS Green Mobility submitted a preliminary feasibility report. The company, known for similar systems in Brisbane and a few European cities, assessed multiple route possibilities, including one linking MG Road, Thevara, and Marine Drive.
Based on these findings, KMRL has decided to commission a more detailed feasibility study. If that receives a green light from the state, the next step will be seeking funds from the Union government, followed by a detailed project report and tender process.
What makes the light tram proposal attractive is its lower cost. A full-fledged metro line costs around ₹300 crore per kilometre, while a light tram system would come to roughly ₹75 crore per kilometre — or even less, if manufacturing is done locally.
In terms of capacity, a standard three-coach light tram can carry about 240 passengers. These vehicles are battery-powered, capable of running up to 45 kilometres on a single charge and can be fully recharged in just six minutes.
Unlike the heritage trams of the past, these are designed to run at road level, making them more accessible and better suited to narrow urban corridors.
Since they don’t need elevated tracks or heavy-duty infrastructure, they could be a practical solution for busy urban zones that aren’t covered by Kochi’s existing metro network.
