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Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) is on track to deliver two ferries to the Kochi Water Metro by the month's end, overcoming a series of delays. This significant delivery is set to inaugurate services along the South Chittoor corridor from the High Court Junction terminal.
Crucial terminals in South Chittoor, Eloor, Cheranalloor, and North Mulavukad are all prepped for operation, eagerly awaiting the initiation of services from the High Court (HC) terminal. An official from Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) highlighted this progress, stating, "With the imminent delivery of the boats, services to South Chittoor, Eloor, Cheranalloor, and North Mulavukad will be initiated."
However, the commencement of new routes hinges on CSL's timely delivery of the boats. The official emphasized, "The routes will be finalized once the boats are delivered."
Concurrently, efforts to enhance the Water Metro experience are in full swing, with terminal infrastructure, including pontoons and beautification, nearing completion. Simultaneously, the Fort Kochi terminal is undergoing final touches, encompassing electrical installations, compound wall construction, and other finishing details. Fort Kochi is gearing up for a statutory inspection, with marine walkways and pontoons already in place following a successful boat anchoring test.
In tandem, the Mattancherry terminal's piling work is progressing, targeting completion by September 2024. Civil works at Kumbalangi and Willingdon Island are also advancing steadily.
The Kochi Water Metro Project, a cutting-edge water transport system connecting ten islands to the mainland, signifies a significant stride toward promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation in India.
Implemented by KMRL, a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Kerala, the project aims to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate road traffic congestion, and enhance transport services. Furthermore, it seeks to improve livelihoods through commercial property development, tourism initiatives, and the creation of new job opportunities.
Launched in April 2023, the inaugural phase of the project features 78 boats and 38 terminals, covering a route of 76 kilometers, with a total project value of Rs 819 crore.
Operating from 7 AM to 8 PM, the Water Metro's ferries run every 15 minutes during peak hours and on-demand at other times. The fares for the routes are set at a nominal price, with rates as low as Rs 10 per trip for those utilizing the three-month Rs 1500 pass.
As CSL gears up to deliver the long-awaited ferries, the Kochi Water Metro stands at the threshold of transforming commuting experiences and contributing to a sustainable and efficient transportation system.
