kochi unforeseen delays in executing the first phase of kochi metro project from aluva to pettah has cast its shadow on the projects second phase extension particularly to western kochi even though metro authorities have not announced a final decision regarding extension of the project to regions like mattancherry and fort kochi residents art connoisseurs and even heritage specialists are apprehensive about the impact of largescale construction activities in a heritage zone the heritage zone which comprises areas in mattancherry and fort kochi is a tourist spot with narrow roads and lanes if metro authorities plan to undertake the kind of construction activities carried out at mainland ernakulam it could ruin the charm of the place said marine engineer and an art enthusiast from fort kochi n m rajasekhar the kochimuziris biennale has provided a new colour to the area making it a hub of art and culture by developing water transport it would be possible connect ernakulam and other neighbouring islands in a better manner large scale construction activities could have a negative impact on the environment and landscape here he added earlier former chairman of the delhi urban art commission duac and noted urban planner k t ravindran said that the metro project should not be allowed in a heritage zone duac had constantly monitored the metro project and its extension activities and had often locked horns with dmrc over routes connectivity and environmental issues he said meanwhile kmrl said that there has been a strong demand from the public mlas and other elected representatives to extend the project to angamaly and west kochi the metro agency had entrusted rites to undertake a feasibility study in september 2014 a final decision will be taken after studying the feasibility document and project report said kmrl spokesperson