The planned extension of the Kochi Water Metro service to Infopark has hit a major roadblock, with project timelines remaining uncertain due to the unresolved status of the Kozhichira bund demolition in Kadambrayar. Representatives of Progressive Techies, a collective of IT employees, have urged Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) to take immediate action to resolve the issue and facilitate the Water Metro terminal near the Infopark campus.
Officials stated that the proposed route, initially envisioned as part of Route Two of the Water Metro from Vyttila to Infopark with intermediate stops at Eroor and Kakkanad (Chitethukara), has been curtailed. The section from Chitethukara to Infopark was dropped due to the delay in government clearance for bund removal, which has remained open for over nine months. Progressive Techies representatives highlighted the potential benefits of the extension for IT employees, noting that the Water Metro could significantly reduce commute times and improve connectivity to the Infopark campus. “The Water Metro service will provide a faster, more convenient commute while complementing ongoing infrastructure development under Phase III of Infopark,” said a spokesperson for the group.
KMRL officials acknowledged the concerns and confirmed that discussions are ongoing to identify suitable alternative sites for the Water Metro terminal, should the bund demolition face further delays. The authority emphasised that resolving land acquisition and regulatory approvals is critical to ensuring the sustainability and efficiency of the water transport network. Urban mobility experts have noted that integrating Water Metro services with IT hubs like Infopark is essential for creating sustainable, low-carbon transportation solutions. By reducing reliance on road-based commuting, the project aligns with Kochi’s broader vision for gender-neutral, eco-friendly, and equitable urban transport.
The delay has prompted calls from industry representatives and urban planners for expedited government action. Officials suggest that once the bund issue is addressed, the Water Metro extension could not only enhance public transport options for IT employees but also stimulate economic activity and improve last-mile connectivity in the region. The Water Metro project, already celebrated as a model for sustainable urban mobility, relies on careful planning and timely coordination between authorities, local communities, and private stakeholders. Experts emphasise that resolving the Kozhichira bund issue promptly is crucial for maintaining project momentum and achieving long-term transport and environmental objectives.
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