Tag: Kochi

Travel

Kochi to Become First Indian City with Light Tram Transport System

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Kochi, Kerala — marking a milestone in India’s urban transport landscape, Kochi is set to become the nation’s first city to introduce a light tram transport system. The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has approved preliminary procedures to move forward with this innovative infrastructure plan aimed at enhancing urban mobility and bridging gaps in last‑mile connectivity that conventional metro systems can’t cover.

The planned system will complement the existing metro network by serving areas not currently covered, helping to reduce traffic congestion in busy corridors and offering a more affordable alternative to high‑cost metro expansions. Initial proposals include a 6.2‑kilometre pilot route connecting MG Road, Thevara, Shanmugham Road, and key commercial hubs — regions known for heavy commuter traffic.

According to KMRL officials, the new light trams — proposed to be 25 metres long, with three coaches and electric‑hybrid technology — will be capable of running on existing roads, elevated tracks, or even underground, allowing planners flexible integration with Kochi’s urban layout. The trams are designed to carry up to 240 passengers and recharge rapidly, offering a greener, efficient transport option.

This light tram initiative also promises significant cost savings compared to conventional metro systems, with infrastructure costs estimated at roughly one‑fourth per kilometre. KMRL’s initial feasibility study highlights the potential for local manufacturing and further cost optimization.

If successfully implemented, Kochi’s light tram project could set a new precedent for sustainable urban transit across India and serve as a model for other cities facing similar mobility challenges.

Business

KIKO Milano Enters South India with First Store in Kochi, Strengthening Its India Presence

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Italian professional makeup brand KIKO Milano has officially entered the South Indian market with the launch of its first store in Kochi, located at Forum Mall, marking a major milestone in the brand’s India expansion journey.

The Kochi launch follows KIKO Milano’s successful entry into key Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Lucknow, and signals the brand’s growing confidence in India’s premium beauty retail landscape. The move comes after KIKO Milano was acquired by Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL) in 2024, a strategic partnership that significantly strengthened Reliance Retail’s premium beauty portfolio while accelerating KIKO Milano’s expansion across India.

Designed as an immersive beauty destination, the Kochi store offers a discovery-led retail experience, featuring curated shade and texture bars that encourage customers to experiment, swatch, and personalise their looks. The store reflects KIKO Milano’s signature blend of Italian innovation, trend-driven formulations, and accessible luxury.

Beauty enthusiasts in Kochi can explore some of the brand’s most iconic products, including the 3D Hydra Lipgloss, Maxi Mod Mascara, and the Scent of Milan fragrance collection — all known for combining high performance with fashion-forward aesthetics.

The launch also strengthens KIKO Milano’s omni-channel presence in India. The brand is available across select Tira beauty stores, online at Tira.com, and through exclusive brand outlets in major cities. KIKO Milano’s entry into Kochi underlines its long-term commitment to India and its focus on serving culturally rich, style-conscious consumers with world-class beauty experiences.

Founded in 1997 in Milan by the Percassi family, KIKO Milano continues to be recognised globally for offering safe, effective, and high-quality makeup, skincare, and beauty tools at accessible prices.

Sports

Lionel Messi’s Kerala Visit Postponed; Argentina to Play Friendly in Angola Instead

Tanisha Cardozo

Lionel Messi’s long-awaited return to India has been postponed, according to an official announcement by the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The world champions were expected to play a friendly match against Australia in Kochi, Kerala, on November 17. However, the AFA confirmed that the fixture has been postponed due to delays in FIFA permissions and logistical challenges in Kerala’s preparations. Instead, the Argentine team, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, will travel to Spain for training before heading to Luanda to play their only friendly match against Angola on November 14. Following the match, the squad will return to Europe for further training sessions until November 18, coinciding with the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup.

Anto Augustine, the event sponsor working alongside the Kerala Sports Ministry, shared on Facebook that the match had to be postponed after discussions with the AFA, citing procedural delays and scheduling constraints. Reports from Argentine media suggest that Kerala’s lack of readiness to host the team within the set timeline was also a key reason behind the decision. The match is now expected to be rescheduled for March 2026.

Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman revealed that Messi was even willing to visit the state independently, but the government insisted on hosting the full national squad together. The postponement has sparked political debate in Kerala, with Opposition Leader V. D. Satheesan criticizing the state government for using Messi’s planned arrival for political mileage, stating that they should now take responsibility for his absence.

Lionel Messi’s last and only visit to India came in 2011, when he captained Argentina in a friendly match against Venezuela at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, where Argentina won 1-0. The excitement around his potential Kerala visit had generated immense anticipation among fans, and despite the postponement, football enthusiasts remain hopeful that Messi and the Argentine team will finally play on Indian soil in 2026.

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Lionel Messi’s Argentina to Play in India After 14 Years: A Historic Exhibition Match in Kochi This October

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In a thrilling development for Indian football enthusiasts, Lionel Messi’s Argentina national team is set to play an exhibition match in Kochi, Kerala, this October. The match, scheduled to take place after a 14-year hiatus, promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans.

A Dream Come True for Indian Football Fans
The last time Messi played in India was in 2011, when Argentina faced Venezuela in a friendly match at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. This upcoming match is a testament to the growing popularity of football in India and the country’s emergence as a significant player in the global football landscape.

A Strategic Partnership to Promote Football in India
The exhibition match is part of a strategic partnership between HSBC India and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) to promote football in India. This initiative aims to strengthen Argentina’s global presence, particularly in Asia, and provide a platform for Indian football enthusiasts to witness the magic of Messi and his team.

Preparations Underway for a Memorable Experience
Kerala’s government has confirmed the event, and preparations are underway to ensure a memorable experience for fans. The match is expected to be one of the largest sporting events in India, given Messi’s immense global appeal.

A Legacy That Inspires Generations
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has a massive following in India. His visit is expected to inspire the youth and elevate football’s profile in South Asia. With eight Ballon d’Or awards and numerous accolades, Messi’s presence is sure to electrify the stadium and create lifelong memories for fans.

A New Chapter for Indian Football
The exhibition match is not only a celebration of Messi’s legacy but also a significant step forward for Indian football. The partnership between HSBC India and the AFA is expected to boost football’s popularity in India and provide opportunities for young talent to flourish