Kochi Metro Phase 2: Johnson Lifts and Schindler India Secure "Pink Line" Vertical Mobility Contracts

In a significant milestone for the city’s expanding transit network, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has finalized Johnson Lifts and Schindler India as the lowest bidders (L1) to supply and install heavy-duty Machine-Room-Less (MRL) elevators for the highly anticipated Phase 2 "Pink Line."

The contracts, which cover the 11.2-kilometer stretch connecting Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad, mark a strategic shift toward energy-efficient, space-saving vertical transportation in India’s rapid transit sector.

The Move to Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Technology

Unlike traditional elevators, MRL systems house the traction machine and controller within the hoistway itself, eliminating the need for a bulky penthouse machine room on the roof of metro stations. This design is critical for the Pink Line’s elevated stations, where aesthetic integration and urban footprint are top priorities.

• Energy Efficiency: The units will feature Permanent Magnet Gearless (PMG) motors and Regenerative Drives, which can feed power back into the station’s electrical grid during descent, reducing energy consumption by up to 30%.
• Heavy-Duty Performance: Built to withstand the high-frequency traffic of a metro environment, these lifts are designed for 24/7 operation with a focus on rapid leveling and passenger safety.

A Split Win for Industry Giants

The selection reflects a balanced approach by KMRL, leveraging both domestic manufacturing prowess and global technological standards:

• Johnson Lifts: As the home-grown market leader, Johnson Lifts continues its "Make in India" success story. Their local manufacturing capability ensures rapid deployment and a robust service network across Kerala.
• Schindler India: Bringing its global expertise in transit mobility, Schindler’s involvement ensures the integration of advanced IoT monitoring. These units will likely be linked to digital platforms for real-time health tracking to prevent downtime.

Building the Pink Line Future

The "Pink Line" is expected to transform the commute for Kochi’s IT corridor. With the vertical transportation contracts now awarded, focus shifts to the installation phase, which is scheduled to align with the station structural completions in late 2026.