Lack of determination, IAS lobby behind delay of Kochi Metro Rail

KOCHI: The lack of determination on the part of the state government and the IAS lobby are evaluated to be the reasons behind the delay of procedures of Kochi Metro Mail project.

Though the central government granted permission to the project on July 3 and the state government decided to kick off the project under the headship of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), no further procedures were implemented.

The main hurdle before the project is the reorganization of director board of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL). Although the centre has appointed five members to the board, the state government has not yet found other five members.

Some IAS officers, backed by political power, are eyeing to become a member of the board. Sources said there is a move to remove Kochi Metro Railway Ltd Managing Director Tom Jose.

Those names under government consideration are former Ernakulam Collectors Muhammed Haneesh and Dr. M. Beena.