Kochi’s Water Metro has emerged as a pivotal mode of transportation, showcasing a commendable surge in ridership following the culmination of the vacation season. The recent statistics reveal a notable uptick in passenger numbers, accentuated by a substantial influx of travellers.
Typically accommodating an average daily ridership of approximately 5,000, the Water Metro Services recently observed a remarkable surge, with last Sunday’s recorded figure soaring to 9,562 passengers. In response to the burgeoning demand, the Water Metro authorities have taken proactive measures, augmenting operational capacity by introducing additional ticket counters at the high court terminal. This strategic decision aims to alleviate congestion and streamline the boarding process, ensuring optimal efficiency and customer satisfaction. CEO of KWML, Sajan P John, underscored the significance of this proactive approach, highlighting the imperative of addressing the escalating queue lengths and optimising service delivery. “The opening of a new route between HC and Fort Kochi is also a reason for the increase in daily footfall, apart from the rush due to the vacation days. We are expecting a further increase in the number of passengers in the upcoming days,” he said. The recent milestone achievement of surpassing two million riders underscores the Water Metro’s burgeoning popularity and pivotal role in Kochi’s public transportation landscape.
Currently, the Water Metro operates 14 boats across five routes, spanning key destinations such as Fort Kochi, Vypeen, South Chittoor, Bolgatty, Eloor, Cheranellore, Vyttila, and Kakkanad. Looking ahead, plans are underway to expand the network, with the introduction of five additional routes slated for this year, encompassing areas like Kumbalam, Paliyamthuruth, Willington Island, Kadamakkudy, and Mattancherry. Anticipated to commence operations in September, these new routes signify a strategic expansion initiative aimed at catering to evolving commuter needs and enhancing connectivity across Kochi and its suburbs. The proactive measures undertaken by the Water Metro authorities not only reflect a commitment to service excellence but also pave the way for sustainable growth and development in Kochi’s burgeoning transportation sector.
