Skip Kochi traffic? You may soon be able to reach airport from Aluva Metro in just 12 minutes

For anyone who has watched the clock while crawling through traffic on the way to Kochi International Airport, a new proposal could offer a much faster alternative.

Kochi Water Metro is exploring a plan to connect Aluva Metro station with the airport through a high-speed electric boat service, cutting the 7.5-km journey to around 12 minutes, according to TNIE. If the project takes shape, it could become India's first airport linked by a Water Metro network.

Instead of travelling by road, passengers would be able to switch from the Metro to the Water Metro near Aluva station and continue their journey by boat. The proposal also includes a skywalk connecting the Metro and Water Metro terminals, making the transfer easier.

The boats are expected to travel at around 20 knots through the Periyar before entering Chengalthodu and reaching the rear side of the airport. Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is also planning a check-in facility there, allowing passengers to complete airport check-in directly from the Water Metro terminal.

The project goes beyond just reducing travel time. Officials are planning an integrated ticketing system that would allow commuters to use the Metro, Water Metro and feeder services with a single ticket.

At present, the drive from Aluva to Kochi airport can take anywhere between 25 and 50 minutes depending on traffic. The proposed water route is aimed at giving travellers a more predictable and congestion-free option.

Before the project moves ahead, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is carrying out a hydrological study to assess its environmental feasibility. The study, expected to be completed this week, will examine canal development requirements, changes in water flow and the possibility of flooding.

KMRL Managing Director Loknath Behera said the proposal is technically feasible, though identifying a suitable location that is not vulnerable to flooding remains a challenge.

Officials are also examining operational aspects, including service timings and the possibility of integrating the proposed Nedumbassery railway station into the network in the future. The airport connection, however, remains the immediate priority.

Once the pre-feasibility report is completed, it will be submitted to the government for further consideration.