After facing several delays, Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) is on track to deliver two ferries to the Kochi Water Metro by the end of this month.
This delivery is set to open up services to the South Chittoor corridor from the High Court Junction terminal, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progress.
Key terminals in South Chittoor, Cheranalloor, Eloor, and North Mulavukad are now fully prepared for operation, pending the commencement of services from the HC terminal.
A Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) official highlighted the progress to The New Indian Express (TNIE), stating, “With the imminent delivery of the boats, services to South Chittoor, Eloor, Cheranalloor, and North Mulavukad will be initiated.”
The official emphasised that the commencement of new routes hinges on CSL’s delivery of the boats.
“The routes will be finalised once the boats are delivered,” he said.
The finalisation of terminal infrastructure, including pontoons and beautification, prepares the ground for an improved Water Metro experience.
Meanwhile, final touches are being applied to the Fort Kochi terminal, with ongoing work including electrical installations, compound wall construction, and other finishing details.
The New Indian Express reported that Fort Kochi is preparing for a statutory inspection, having already installed marine walkways and pontoons after a successful boat anchoring test last Saturday.
The Kochi Water Metro Project, a state-of-the-art water transport system connecting ten islands to the mainland, is a significant step towards promoting sustainable and environment-friendly modes of transportation in India.
The project, implemented by KMRL, a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Kerala, aims to reduce the carbon emission footprint, alleviate traffic congestion on the roads and improve transport services.
It also seeks to enhance livelihoods through commercial property development, tourism-based initiatives and new job opportunities.
The inaugural phase of the project, launched in April 2023, features 78 boats and 38 terminals, spanning a route of 76 kilometres. The total value of the project amounts to Rs 819 crore.
The Water Metro’s ferries operate every 15 minutes during peak hours and on-demand at other times, running from 7 AM to 8 PM.
Fares for the routes are set at a very nominal price, with fares as low as Rs 10 per trip for those using the three-month Rs 1500 pass.
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