Kochi: The Kochi Water Metro, implemented by the Government of Kerala, has completed two years of service, having served over 4 million passengers. What began as a novel public transportation project has now evolved into a tourism destination for everyone—from VVIPs to ordinary citizens visiting Kochi. As it enters its third year, the Water Metro service is preparing to expand to more locations.

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) Managing Director Lokanath Behera said that this water-based transport system meets both current and future public transportation needs in an environmentally friendly way and helps reduce road traffic, all at a very low cost.

The efficient implementation and outstanding service of the Kochi Water Metro have empowered the government to consider replicating it in 21 other locations across the country.

New boat expected within a month

Initially, Cochin Shipyard was contracted to build 23 boats. So far, 19 boats have been delivered. Of the remaining four, two are under construction, and a trial run has begun for one of them. It is expected to be delivered within a month and a half.

Currently, the Water Metro operates with 19 boats from terminals at High Court, Fort Kochi, Vypin, South Chittoor, Cheranalloor, Eloor, Vyttila, and Kakkanad. The service was officially launched on April 25, 2023.

More terminals in Kochi this year

Phase one of the Kochi Water Metro project includes 15 terminals. Service has already begun at 10 of these. Construction is in its final stages at the remaining five. Terminals at Mattancherry and Willingdon Island are nearing completion and are expected to become operational next month.

Expanding to more regions in the third year

Following a request from the Maharashtra government, a feasibility report has been submitted for implementing the Water Metro in Mumbai. In light of Kochi Water Metro’s successful operations, and based on recommendations from the central government, Kochi Metro Rail Limited is currently conducting feasibility studies to implement similar services in various locations across 11 states and two union territories. These include Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Goa, Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Kerala, as well as the union territories of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.