Govt of India plans Water Metro Systems in 18 Cities after success of Kochi Water Metro Project

Naomi Pandya Posted on: 2025-01-13 07:15:00 Viewer: 2,150 Comments: 0 Country: India City: New Delhi

Govt of India plans Water Metro Systems in 18 Cities after success of Kochi Water Metro Project

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): In a significant move to revolutionize urban mobility, the Union government has tasked Kochi Water Metro Ltd. (KWML) with conducting a feasibility study for the establishment of water metro services across 18 locations in India. Building on the success of the Kochi Water Metro, this initiative aims to expand water-based transport to cities with rivers, lakes, backwaters, and coastal areas, leveraging India’s vast aquatic resources for sustainable transit solutions.

Potential sites for these water metro services include iconic locations such as the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, and island regions in Andaman and Lakshadweep. Other cities under consideration for the project include Ahmedabad (Sabarmati), Surat, Mangaluru, Ayodhya, Dhubri, Goa, Kollam, Kolkata, Patna, Prayagraj, Srinagar, Varanasi, Mumbai, Kochi (Edakochi), and Vasai.

The comprehensive feasibility study will analyze the suitability of these regions for water metro systems, with a focus on local waterbodies that could serve as viable routes for modern, eco-friendly transportation. Following the study, KWML will identify the most suitable locations and proceed with the preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs) for each site.

A Model for Sustainable Urban Transport

The Kochi Water Metro has set a new benchmark in urban water transport with its cutting-edge facilities, comparable to metro rail systems, offering a seamless and environmentally sustainable travel option. The project, which has been lauded for its innovative design and operational efficiency, serves as a model for future urban water transport systems across the country.

“This ambitious project aims to harness waterbodies for sustainable urban transport, revolutionizing mobility in multiple cities across the nation,” a statement from KWML read. “The national expansion of the Kochi Water Metro model underscores Kerala’s leadership in sustainable development and modern transport innovation.”

Kerala’s Innovation and Expertise in Focus

In November 2024, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways entrusted Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) with conducting the feasibility study to assess the potential of replicating the water metro model in other regions. In response, KWML formed an in-house committee to lead the initial work, with the recent approval of its board to establish a consultancy wing to further bolster the process.

KWML has emphasized that despite the technical complexities involved in adapting the water metro model to diverse terrains, the company’s skilled workforce and operational experience will play a crucial role in the project’s success. “If necessary, external experts will be brought in to strengthen the process,” the statement added, highlighting Kerala's commitment to innovation in sustainable transport solutions.

With the Kochi Water Metro already making waves as a transformative urban transport project, the expansion to 18 cities promises to take India one step closer to a greener, more connected future. The initiative not only showcases Kerala’s expertise in transport development but also positions India as a global leader in the adoption of environmentally friendly transit systems.





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