Kochi has launched an ambitious infrastructure overhaul that blends sustainable transport, flood mitigation, and urban regeneration in one of India’s most climate-vulnerable coastal cities
With a sanctioned outlay of ₹3,716.10 crore under the Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS), the city is set to breathe new life into six of its long-neglected canals, turning them into viable public transport corridors and recreational spaces.The plan, spearheaded by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), is a critical step toward building climate-resilient, net-zero urban infrastructure while easing pressure on the city’s congested roads. By reviving historic canals such as Perandoor, Edappally, Market Canal, Konthuruthy, Thevara, and Chilavannur, the project aims to create an alternative, carbon-free mobility network with green walkways, public waterfronts, and boat services.
Each canal will be widened to a minimum of 16.5 metres and enhanced with eco-conscious landscaping and pedestrian-friendly walkways, encouraging non-motorised mobility. The move is expected to significantly cut down on road-based emissions and offer citizens a quieter, cleaner commuting option. More importantly, the project aligns with the state’s long-term vision of positioning Kochi as a model eco-urban centre in India.Central to the water transport plan is the development of an 11.5-kilometre navigable stretch from Muttar to Chitrapuzha via the Edappally Canal, with a fleet of ten modern boats operating every 30 minutes. These low-draft vessels, designed to clear bridges with a 3.5-metre height limit, aim to deliver seamless, energy-efficient urban mobility. Another critical linkage will connect the Vyttila–Thevara Water Metro line with Elamkulam Metro Station through an upgraded Chilavannur Canal, enabling intermodal travel across metro rail and water transport systems.
Beyond mobility, the plan brings with it substantial environmental dividends. As part of the flood mitigation component, existing bottlenecks will be removed, and new bridges will be built on Bund Road and Subash Chandra Bose Road to enhance stormwater drainage during monsoons. Four new sewage treatment plants will also be set up at Elamkulam, Vennala, Muttar, and Perandoor at an additional investment of ₹1,325 crore. These are expected to significantly reduce untreated wastewater entering Kochi’s waterways.A waterfront project akin to the city’s popular Marine Drive is also in the pipeline. Planned along the Chilavannur Canal, it will feature landscaped public spaces, water sports amenities, and community recreation areas. This development, while supporting tourism, is also envisioned to improve urban liveability, making Kochi more inclusive and wellness-centric.As cities globally look to rethink their relationship with water and climate, Kochi’s canal regeneration project offers a blueprint for integrating ecology, transport, and public infrastructure. While implementation timelines and environmental impact monitoring remain key concerns, the commitment to green infrastructure signals a promising turn for a city often tested by floods and congestion.
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Kochi Embarks on Canal Revival Plan
