India’s inaugural water metro system approaches its first anniversary milestone on April 25 with ambitious strategies for growth.
Garnering significant public attention, the water metro has swiftly evolved into a favored mode of transit, attracting over 1.8 million passengers since its inauguration. Notably, it has become an indispensable feature of Kochi’s tourism landscape, prominently featured in travel itineraries. Managed by the Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), the project is poised for expansion, with forthcoming routes aimed at catering to the burgeoning tourist influx. Encouraged by its success, numerous states have expressed keen interest in adopting similar water metro systems, with an initial assessment suggesting viability in up to 40 cities nationwide. Furthermore, Kollam emerges as a promising candidate for initiating a water metro service.
As of April 11, ridership figures stand at an impressive 18,87,913, with daily averages approaching 6721 passengers. Anticipated to surge to 10,000 during the upcoming summer holidays, the water metro’s popularity continues to soar. Initially launched with routes connecting Vytilla-Kakkanad and High Court-Vypin, subsequent extensions to Bolgatty have broadened its reach. Presently, nine terminals are operational, with plans underway for the development of additional terminals including Paliamthuruthu, Kumbalam, Willingdon Islands, Kadamakudy, and Mattancherry. Upon full deployment, the water metro envisages a fleet of 78 boats servicing 38 terminals, equipped with cutting-edge vessels constructed at the Kochi shipyard. With thirteen boats presently operational, KMRL is poised to inaugurate services to Fort Kochi, a prime tourist enclave, in time for the holiday season. Ticket prices range between Rs 20 to Rs 40, ensuring accessibility for diverse passenger demographics.
