After years-long wait, Bliss City project to become reality

Kochi: After years of planning and a strategic partnership with National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC), Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) is finally breathing life into its ambitious Bliss City project. The 31.43-acre mixed-use development in Kakkanad is transitioning from a conceptual blueprint to an active construction site, marked by the recent leasing of the project's first land parcels."We officially leased 3.41 acres of prime land to investors, with development work expected to commence shortly. The initial phase will focus on a unique design integrating commercial, shopping and entertainment facilities. A secondary parcel of 1.62 acres was already tendered and is currently in the process of being handed over," a senior KMRL official said. Located near the proposed Kunnumpuram Metro station and district collectorate, the project site sits on land valued between Rs 600 crore and Rs 700 crore. KMRL officials anticipate that the progress of Metro's Phase II expansion will further bolster investor confidence, turning the corridor into a magnet for high-value real estate. The project found its footing after KMRL signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NBCC in May 2024. Following a lukewarm response to a 2022 expression of interest, NBCC was brought in as a facilitator to leverage its expertise in large-scale infrastructure and investor relations. The revenue models will remain flexible, offering both rental and revenue-sharing options, to attract diverse stakeholders. "NBCC has already secured investors for specific segments, including a proposed theme park covering five to seven acres and an I-Max theatre," the official added. Out of the total 31.43 acres, state govt already transferred 17.43 acres. According to the officials, the Bliss City will feature theme parks and high-end cinemas, game zones, retail malls and office complexes, modern warehousing facilities, diverse food courts and hospitality outlets, supermarket, co-working spaces and special residential areas as well. "The project is strategically placed to benefit from Kochi Metro Phase II expansion, which will connect the area to the rest of the city and the IT corridor. The aim is to transform the landscape into a premier destination for business and leisure," the official added.