Kochi water metro is on the way

Kochi is on the verge of becoming the first city in India to introduce a water metro, a novel transportation system that integrates water transport with road and rail. This modern and environmentally friendly mode of transportation will use the city’s intricate backwater network to provide a smooth and convenient commuting experience. The initial service between High Court-Vypeen routes will commence soon, as the construction of the terminals has already been completed.

The project for Kochi Water Metro aims to establish a network of waterways that will provide an environmentally sustainable public transportation system across 76 km of routes, connecting 38 terminals spread across 10 islands around the city.

With an estimated daily ridership of 34,000 passengers during the initial phase, the project, costing INR 747 crore and receiving financial aid of 85 million euros from German financial agency KfW, will help alleviate traffic congestion on roads and decrease the city’s carbon footprint.

There are plans to implement a unified ticketing system that will integrate water metro, metro rail, and bus tickets for passengers. Cochin Shipyard has been entrusted with constructing 23 boats, of which seven have already been handed over.

These battery-powered hybrid electric boats will minimize noise pollution and emissions. According to Loknath Benera, the Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd, the water metro is a distinctive concept that will provide a much-needed boost to sustainable water transport. “Kochi is the perfect location to implement this because the city is surrounded by islands with a significant population of islanders.

The hybrid boats, which can carry 100 or 50 passengers, are one-of-a-kind and employ state-of-the-art technology. The water metro will enhance the socio-economic status of the islanders and also elevate Kochi’s standing as a tourist destination,” he explained.

Kochi Water metro will be a first-of-its-kind ferry service in the world with a fleet of advanced electric hybrid boats serving a city and connecting close to one lakh islanders. The waterways have served as a vital part of Kochi’s identity for centuries and the new metro system revitalises the age-old tradition in a modern and sustainable way.