In another important step in the progress of the Kochi Metro Phase 2 project, Kochi Metro Rail Limited has awarded a contract worth Rs 91.6 crore to Siemens Limited for setting up telecommunications systems for the new metro line.

The contract was awarded through a competitive open tender process. Siemens Limited was selected as the most qualified firm after technical and financial evaluations.

The contract was signed by Chief Engineer Johnson T. C on behalf of KMRL and Amit Bharadwaj and Udayaditya Pathak on behalf of Siemens Limited at a ceremony held at the corporate office. The agreement was signed in the presence of KMRL Director (Systems) Sanjay Kumar, Joint General Manager (Signalling and Telecommunication) Sajith V. and representatives of Systra, the general consultant.

The agreement will provide comprehensive communication systems required for the safe, efficient and smooth functioning of the new metro line. It will include systems for providing accurate notifications to passengers, digital information boards, CCTV surveillance, emergency communication facilities, office automation network and cyber security systems.

The agreement comes at a time when the construction work of the Kochi Metro Phase II is progressing rapidly in various areas. After major civil works and other important contracts, the construction of the project has entered a new phase with the signing of the telecommunications agreement.

Officials said that this agreement is another proof of KMRL's commitment to provide a world-class, safe and passenger-friendly public transport system for Kochi. With each crucial contract coming to fruition, Kochi Metro is taking another step towards completing the second phase.