A Pioneering City with Dual Metro Services
Kochi emerges as India’s trailblazer in urban transportation by launching the nation’s first-ever water metro service. This pioneering city now boasts both metro rail and water metro systems, offering residents and visitors an affordable, luxurious, and eco-friendly travel experience. Kochi sets a new benchmark for urban connectivity, as it continues to innovate and lead the way in sustainable transportation solutions.
Kochi made history on April 25, 2023, as the first city in India to boast both metro rail and water metro services. The innovative water metro provides an affordable yet luxurious experience, with fares starting at just 20 rupees.
Crafted with the same design aesthetic as Kochi metro coaches, the fully air-conditioned water metro boats offer passengers an enchanting view of the serene backwaters.
The journey promises a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, without the challenges of traffic, exposure to the elements, or the incessant honking of horns.
Presently, water metro services operate on the High Court-Vyttila and Vyttila-Kakkanad routes. The High Court-Vyttila route runs from 7 am to 8 pm, with a frequency of every 15 minutes, while the Vyttila- Kakkanad route offers three daily services during the initial phase, operating between 8 am-11 am and 4 pm-7 pm.
Connectivity remains a cornerstone of the water metro. The strategically located Kakkanad terminal sits near Chittethukara, adjacent to the Infopark Expressway and just below the Chitrapuzha Bridge. Ample parking facilities cater to the needs of passengers, who can also take advantage of KSRTC feeder services. KMRL’s five electric autos and bicycles further enhance accessibility. Travellers from Thrippunithura, Aluva, and Angamaly can reach Kakkanad swiftly via KSRTC and private buses that ply the Seaport-Airport road.
The Water Metro’s fare structure is both attractive and budget-friendly. Prices range from 20 rupees for the Highcourt-Vypin route to 30 rupees for the Vyttila-Kakkanad route. Affordable weekly, monthly, and three-month passes are also available, priced at 180, 600, and 1500 rupees respectively. For added convenience, passengers can use the Kochi 1 Card, which is also valid on the Kochi Metro Rail.
Spanning an impressive 76 kilometers, the Kochi Water Metro connects 10 islands through a network of 38 terminals. The ambitious project, with an investment of 1136.83 crore rupees, is supported by direct contributions from the state government and funding from the German agency, KFW.
Kochi’s dual metro services are a testament to the city’s progressive approach to urban transportation, setting a benchmark for other cities to follow.