Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
With the demand from the public piling up for connecting more of the islands in Kochi, which are not included in the present plan, there is ample scope for Phase 2 of the Water Metro Project, to expand further. This is also reflected in the DPR, where about 145 Boats were projected for the needs in the year 2035 catering to a daily ridership figure of over a lakh people.
The State of Kerala having traditional navigable canals and waterways stretching across the state with more than 1680 kms, has abundant scope for expansion. Southern cities Kollam and Alleppey had a similar tradition of Water transport in the past and even the state capital Trivandrum was not far behind. The West Coast canal with a length of about 558 Kms is the main arterial waterway route and has connections up to interior towns like Kottayam. Kuttanad, on the banks of Vembanadu, has traditionally been dependent on water transport and continues to be so.
The West Coast Canal has a prospect of using water transport for cargo movement, decongesting the National Highways, and taking out some strain. Ro-Ro vessels are best suited for cargo movement in this stretch, which can ideally change to Hydrogen fuel-based electric vessels. Water Metro has proposed to partner with IMO on a pilot project to move into the hydrogen-powered water metro, as part of their Green Voyage 2050 initiative.
Ro-Ro vessels are complementary to the Water Metro system and at least three routes are identified for future prospects in Kochi itself.
Kochi Water Metro is setting the global benchmark for eco-friendly public transportation. As the largest fleet of electric boats in the world, it’s transforming the urban water transport paradigm, integrating renewable energy, and prioritizing inclusivity. The innovative system challenges traditional limitations with cutting-edge designs, swift charging technologies, and seamless intermodal connectivity.
Tourism Sector
Over a thousand traditional houseboats are engaged in the tourism sector in the backwaters of Kerala, the majority of which are in the Kumarakom, Alleppey backwaters are a major tourist attraction, but prone to create pollution due to the large use of diesel-powered boats. Modified versions of the Water Metro Electric Boats can very well cater to the needs of a climate-friendly tourist ecosystem saving our lakes. Different PPP models can be explored for catering to the needs of the sector.
Integration with other transport modes
Integration with the Metro, Buses, Taxis, Trains, and other public transportation systems is one of the key elements for the vision of the city. Common ticketing systems for Metro Water Metro, Buses, and feeder services are already in place through Travel cards, Mobile ticketing, Common passes, etc. This has made the entire ecosystem adaptable and convenient to commuters. Last-mile connectivity is offered through feeder services, electric auto-rickshaws, rented bicycles, etc. Mobile apps developed for the services would be very convenient to get information at the fingertips.
Consultancy Services
Water Metro, with the right innovations and solutions, became the pioneering effort in the country in a modern integrated water transport system. Water Metro learned the hard way but matured with abundant knowledge and, naturally, this knowledge base can be better utilized by offering consultancy services for other cities and projects in the entire country and outside. Business development will follow in this arena.
Close to a lakh and a quarter of people traveled in the first 14 days since the beginning of its revenue operation in a small stretch and long queues were visible at terminals. Almost all trips sailed at full capacity indicating a wholehearted acceptance by the locals of the Green initiative as a major public transport system. Water Metro systems can be replicated and adapted in about 40 cities in the country with navigable water bodies. The Water Metro Project is one of the pioneering efforts under the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, proving to the world that India can lead the world with Technological solutions and innovations.