KMRL seeks metro viaduct safety during Army tower demolition

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has asked the Ernakulam district administration to ensure the safety of the metro viaduct while two 28-storey towers are being demolished. These towers, built by the Army Welfare Housing Organisation (AWHO) on Silversand Island at Vyttila, have developed cracks due to poor construction. The demolition of the towers will take about ten months. The metro viaduct, which runs from the Vyttila Mobility Hub towards Pettah, is very close to the towers. KMRL has sent a letter to the district administration requesting details about the demolition, including how much vibration it will cause and what safety measures will be implemented. Concerns about the viaduct's safety are heightened since speed restrictions were earlier placed on the metro's Kaloor-JLN stadium corridor. This was due to wear and tear found on a critical component. However, those restrictions were lifted on March 17 after repairs were completed. KMRL is taking precautions to protect the viaduct as the demolition proceeds.