Kochi (Kerala): An ambitious and innovative project launched with the aim of easing daily commuting for the masses, the Kochi Water Metro has emerged as a viable alternative to surface transport in Kerala and is being widely hailed for its eco-friendly mechanism and efficiency. The initiative has already earned widespread recognition and has successfully reduced traffic congestion while improving connectivity between the city and its many islands.
The project promotes eco-friendly modes of transportation and aims to become fully solar-powered in the coming years.
These details were shared by Shri Loknath Behera, Managing Director, KMRL, during a meeting with a group of journalists who arrived here as part of the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Kashmir’s Media Tour, which began on Monday.
Elaborating further, Mr Behera said that what has transformed the commuting experience of the masses in Kerala could serve as an example for other parts of the country, including Kashmir, for which a feasibility report has already been submitted by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
“Out of eighteen cities, we have already submitted nearly ten feasibility reports, including one on the possibility of a water transport system in Kashmir,” he said. “It is now up to the government of Kashmir to move forward with the proposal. What we have submitted is a basic feasibility report that needs to be backed by further studies to finalise the blueprint,” he added, remarking that if Kerala or any other part of India can have such a system, there is no reason Kashmir cannot.
Providing details of the project, Sajan John, Chief Operating Officer, Kochi Water Metro, highlighted the innovative measures that make the initiative not just an alternative commuting option but also an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transport. He said that efficient integration, along with proper planning and implementation, has been key to the project’s success so far. He further added that the operational framework of the Kochi Water Metro has been meticulously designed to achieve optimal outcomes.
Mr John also briefed the delegation on the objectives and vision of the Kochi Water Metro, describing it as a climate-resilient, sustainable, and inclusive transport system. He said the project offers seamless connectivity with universal and equitable access, enhanced safety standards, and a transition towards green, low-polluting mobility solutions. At present, the Water Metro operates 20 battery-operated boats across 12 terminals, providing transport services to thousands of commuters from nearly 10 surrounding islands.
“Kashmir is similar to Kerala in many ways, particularly in terms of Dal Lake and its river systems. We have recently submitted a very positive feasibility report to the government. Kashmir can certainly have a similar initiative, provided all required studies are completed and a supportive ecosystem is created,” he added.
The operational aspects of the project were explained by Shri Shaji Janardanan, Chief General Manager, KMRL, who elaborated on terminal accessibility, safety measures—including the deployment of rescue boats—and the use of battery-operated vessels with dedicated charging docks, resulting in a minimal carbon footprint.
The Kochi Water Metro was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on April 25, 2023. Officials informed that feasibility studies for similar water metro systems have been conducted in 15 cities across the country, including Srinagar, with Mumbai identified as the next potential location. The project, a Government of India initiative jointly implemented by the Government of Kerala and Kochi Metro, has received several national and international recognitions.
The Water Metro operates across 10 islands and 15 planned routes, offering air-conditioned seating, free Wi-Fi, life jackets for passenger safety, and large onboard screens guiding commuters on safety measures. The project covers 15 identified routes across a 78-kilometre network, with a fleet of 78 fast, electrically propelled hybrid ferries plying between 38 jetties.
Other officials present at the meeting who interacted with the journalists included Dr M P Ram Navas, Director Projects, KMRL; Shaji Janardanan, CGM, KMRL; and K K Jayakumar, Head, PR and Social Media.
Ms Shamila K Y, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Kochi, also accompanied the delegation. At the outset of the meeting, Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer, PIB Srinagar and Conducting Officer of the tour, introduced the media delegation.
