Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 100,000 daily ridership in the past 10 days, marking a substantial increase in passenger footfall since its inception in 2016. This surge in ridership has prompted KMRL to enhance its services by introducing 12 additional trains starting July 15, aimed at alleviating the congestion during peak hours.
According to data released by KMRL, the cumulative ridership for the year has already exceeded 17.6 million, with more than 1.2 million passengers commuting via metro in the first 11 days of July alone. Recognizing the growing demand, the new services will operate during peak periods from 8am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm, reducing the headway between trains from 7.45 minutes to 7 minutes. The rise in metro ridership is attributed to several factors, including escalating traffic congestion on city roads and the inadequacy of public transport buses, compelling commuters to opt for the metro for their daily travel needs. Additionally, the recent extension of metro services to Tripunithura has further bolstered daily footfall, expanding accessibility across the city. Commenting on the trend, a senior KMRL official highlighted the shift towards metro as the preferred mode of transport, particularly during non-festival days and regular weekdays. “The consistent crossing of the 100,000 ridership mark during normal days is a positive indicator of the metro’s increasing popularity as the primary commuting choice in Kochi,” the official remarked.
The introduction of feeder services connecting Aluva to the airport has also contributed significantly to the metro’s attractiveness for airport-bound travellers, offering a cost-effective alternative to expensive taxi rides. This accessibility enhancement has resonated well with commuters seeking efficient and economical travel options. Despite the positive developments, challenges such as overcrowding during peak hours persist, underscoring the need for further expansions and enhancements in metro infrastructure. Advocates like Arjun Prakash from Kochi Next Forum advocate extending metro services beyond current operational hours to better serve late-night commuters. Looking ahead, KMRL remains committed to improving metro services, enhancing connectivity, and meeting the growing mobility demands of Kochi residents. The expansion initiatives and ridership milestones signify a pivotal phase in Kochi’s public transportation landscape, reinforcing the metro’s role in fostering sustainable urban mobility.
