Kochi ranks 420th globally and 8th in India according to the Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2025

Kochi Metro (Representational image)

The Oxford Economics Global Cities Index 2025 has Kochi in 420th position globally and eighth in India — making it the top-ranked city in Kerala. But experts caution against reading too much into the ranking, warning that the city still faces serious challenges in infrastructure, mobility, governance, and public services.

The global cities index, which ranks cities based on five key pillars — economics, human capital, quality of life, environment, and governance — also lists several other Kerala cities: Thrissur (429 globally, 9th in India), Kozhikode (497/11), Kottayam (552/16), Kollam (583/20), Thiruvananthapuram (608/24), and Kannur (663/32).

While Kochi’s rise up the rankings may seem encouraging, urban policy experts and civic leaders, including Dr D Dhanuraj, Chairman of Centre for Public Policy Research (CPPR), urge a deeper reflection on what needs to change. He gave his insights to Anna Jose of The New Indian Express (TNIE) on the subject, warning that the ranking should serve as a wake-up call rather than a moment of pride.

“To improve Kochi’s standing, we must focus on public transportation, governance, quality of life, business development, and empowering local institutions,”

he is quoted as saying.

He also commented on the urgent need to upgrade the public transport system.

“We need more feeder buses and better connectivity to the islands. The rising number of private vehicles is causing congestion and pollution. A well-integrated public transport network is essential to make the city liveable,” he added.”

Dhanuraj also opined on broader development goals.

“The city lacks social spaces and options for engagement. We need green spaces, entertainment hubs, and cultural initiatives. Authorities must also liberalise rules to encourage startups and new enterprises. It’s vital to involve youngsters and professionals in shaping the city’s future.”

Read the full article by The New Indian Express here.

Views expressed by the author are personal and need not reflect or represent the views of the Centre for Public Policy Research.