Kochi:
Reiterating that it values the expertise of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) chief E Sreedharan, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) managing director Tom Jose said that they have not at any point done anything to keep Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) out of the project.
There were media reports that Sreedharan had expressed disinterest in associating with the project as the Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) had sent a letter to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) stating that it had the ability to execute the project on its own.
The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) clarified that the letter was intended only to inform the DMRC that funds were available from Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA).
"We have already reached an agreement with Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) to implement the Kochi Metro Rail on the model of Chennai and Bangalore. And as per this requirement, an international tender should be invited. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) can participate in the tender procedures and continue its association with the project. The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) had sent the letter after consulting the state government. Inviting the tender will also ensure transparency in implementing the project," he told Express.
Jose also brushed aside media reports about Sreedharan's involvement. "They are baseless. The Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is very much happy to associate with an expert like Sreedharan. "There is no need for any apprehensions over the future of the project.
"We have already reached an agreement with SBI Capital Investment for raising funds for the bridge development of the Metro rail project. The Centre is expected to give its nod for the project in January after the meeting of the Planning and Investment Board (PIB). Land acquisition is expected to be completed within nine months. Everything is on the right track and we are hopeful of completing the project within the stipulated time," Jose said.