Kochi: Celebrating a successful year of operations, the Kochi Water Metro has emerged as a popular mode of transportation, serving a staggering 19,72,247 passengers since its commencement. As the water transit system commemorates its first anniversary, Managing Director Loknath Behra joined celebrities from diverse backgrounds aboard a Water Metro vessel. Musical performances have been arranged at water metro terminals throughout the week,however, formal festivities have been postponed due to the prevailing Election Code of Conduct, with plans for official celebrations to follow once restrictions are lifted.

The focus of the Water Metro remains steadfast on encouraging daily commuters to embrace water-based transit options for their transportation needs. Offering affordable ticket prices ranging from Rs 20 to Rs 40, the Water Metro also provides discounted fares of up to Rs 10 for regular passengers through various travel passes.

Since its inauguration on April 25, 2023 with just nine boats and two routes, the Kochi Water Metro has expanded its reach, extending services to Fort Kochi and introducing new routes. However, the expansion faces challenges due to limitations in the number of available boats. Despite this, construction efforts for additional terminals at Kumbalam, Paliyamthuruth, Willingdon Island, Kadamakkudy, and Mattancherry are progressing swiftly, with services on these routes expected to commence by September and October.

In a bid to enhance connectivity, Water Metro officials are actively exploring initiatives to improve first and last-mile connectivity to terminals, thereby facilitating seamless travel for commuters. Various projects are also under consideration to streamline access to and from Water Metro terminals.