spot_img
HomeInfrastructureModi Government's Vision to Expand Water Metro and Promote Sustainable Transport Across...

Modi Government’s Vision to Expand Water Metro and Promote Sustainable Transport Across India

Modi Government’s Vision to Expand Water Metro and Promote Sustainable Transport Across India

The Indian government’s Water Metro project, initially launched in Kochi, is gaining significant attention as a model for sustainable and eco-friendly urban transport. After its successful launch in Kochi in April 2023, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has set its sights on expanding this innovative project to other cities across the country. The Water Metro project is more than just a mode of transport; it represents a leap forward in modernizing India’s urban mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and contributing to environmental protection.

In Kochi, the Water Metro system has proven to be highly successful, providing affordable, modern transportation options to residents of the city’s numerous islands, offering seamless connectivity to Kochi city. The project utilizes battery-operated electric hybrid boats, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.

Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, praised the Water Metro in a recent post, sharing his experience of traveling on the Kochi system. He described the Water Metro as a “unique amalgamation of convenience, environmental protection, and modern technology.” His tweet highlighted that the Water Metro not only reduces traffic in Kochi but also promotes backwater tourism, contributing to Kerala’s vibrant tourism industry. As of December 2024, the system has already facilitated the travel of over 3.3 million passengers, connecting 10 islands around the city. The project will eventually span 76 kilometers, with 38 terminals, significantly enhancing accessibility for residents and commuters.

Currently, seven boats have been deployed, and five terminals are fully operational. The system is also focusing on integrating floating pontoons at jetties to make transportation more accessible, particularly for people with disabilities. Environmentally, the Water Metro is making a substantial impact. Once fully operational, it is expected to reduce Kochi’s carbon footprint by 44,000 tons of CO2 annually. By relying on renewable energy sources, the Water Metro offers a green and sustainable solution to urban transport challenges. Looking beyond Kochi, the success of the Water Metro model has the potential to transform urban mobility in other coastal cities. India’s National Waterways network, which spans over 20,000 kilometers, offers vast opportunities for the project’s expansion. Officials believe that around 40 cities in India could replicate the Water Metro model, improving urban mobility and reducing congestion in regions with navigable water bodies. This expansion would not only enhance sustainable urban transport but also boost tourism, particularly in areas with inland waterways.

The future of the Water Metro is bright, with plans for further growth in Kochi and across India. This initiative goes beyond improving transport; it reflects a broader vision for a sustainable, eco-friendly future for urban mobility. By reducing congestion, cutting emissions, and promoting tourism, the Water Metro is positioned to be a transformative model for urban transportation in India. The expansion of the project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of combining modern technology with environmental protection, promising significant contributions to India’s urban transformation and sustainability goals.

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisment -spot_img

Most Popular

Recent Comments