Though the final decision on the reconstruction of South Rail Overbridge (ROB) is yet to be taken, the huge cost for land acquisition and construction is likely to be a major hurdle for the key projects that will boost the infrastructure facilities of the city. At the meeting convened by Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany the other day, Managing Director, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd, Elias George said that a total of `100 crore is required for widening the South ROB. With the KMRL already completing the funding procedures for Kochi Metro and related projects, the state government will have to allot additional funds for the ROB reconstruction. The project is not included in the list of Kochi Metro Rail-related projects and now it will have to be included in the next next annual Budget. If the budget allocation is made, the project can commence by next year. But it will take nearly 18 months to complete if it is carried out by an agency like Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. With the DMRC making it clear that its first priority is to keep the Kochi Metro Rail deadline, whether they will undertake the project or not is a question. The DMRC will have to complete the work of the Edappally Flyover too,” experts said.

 They said it would become difficult to widen the bridge once the Metro rail line is built through its northern side. As per the alignment, the pillars of the Metro Rail will pass by the side of South RoB, unlike at the North bridge where they pass through the  centre. Besides, it will not be easy for the authorities to reconstruct the South ROB as the number of high-rises around it exceed that of Ernakulam North ROB.

 The Kochi Corporation will also have to seek financial support from the state for other major infrastructure projects such as the widening of Vyttila-Tripunithura Petta road for which procedures for land acquisition have begun. A total of Rs 120 crore is required for the widening of the Vyttila-Petta Road while another `30 crore is needed for its construction.

Another road that needs to be developed is the Thammanam-Pulleppady Road, the widening of which requires Rs 15 crore while Rs 390 crore is needed for land acquisition.

However, the Kochi Corporation authorities have decided to seek the help of the state government. Mayor Tony Chammany said that the suggestions and recommendations made at the meeting will be submitted before the government soon.