Kochi: Central nod for the much awaited Rs 5600 crore Kochi Metro project is expected in a few weeks and work can begin by April, Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia said.

The Planning commission had never said it is opposed to the Kochi Metro, Ahuluwalia told reporters after visiting the three sites of the project through which it would run.

"The Planning commission had never said we are opposing Kochi Metro. Different ministries have different views. The intention is not that this project should be held up,"he said.      

Ahluwalia said Finance Ministry officials are presently busy with budget preparation and the central clearance is expected in another few weeks.

To a query, he said the state government has to decide on whether or not to go in for private participation. 'State government has to decide... we can only suggest private participation', he said.

Ahluwalia said he was satisfied with the progress of the work so far.

Tags: Kerala, Kochi Metro Project, Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Planning Commission, South