Concieved by former MD of KMRL, now Additional Chief Secretary– the Kochi water project is thr fruition of efforts that began as early as 2014. Dubbed as the dream project by Kerala CM, the facility will give impetus to a major revolution in the water transport system in the state thereby boosting states tourism.
Discerning no difference between the land bound services, the water metro ferries will help integrate the populace and provide them with ride quality and safety focusing on aesthetics akin the metro railways. Worthy of appreciation is a bid at inclusiveness of features– an attempt not done anywhere in the country. Intrigued by the idea of connecting islanders with the city counterparts, the German funding agency KfW provided a soft loan that will ultimately transform Kochi into a global city.
Commencing with 78 electric hybrid boats that commuters can board from 38 terminals, the service will connect 10 islands in and around the port city. With the state Govt and KfW German footing the bill, the project envisages air conditioned electric ferries in Greater Kocho area. In toto, 23 ferries have been designated to operate under this project where 9 out of them would begin operations immediately. The lot is expected to ferry 100 passengers at once. Another fleet of 55 that can carry 50 passengers would run in shallow water bodies are expected to follow the suit.
The project will begin in a phased pattern, with first phase from the High Court Vipin terminals and Vyttila Kakknad terminals. As per the blueprint formulated by authorities, commuters commuters can their destination within 20 minutes 25 minutes respectively.
Touted as eco-friendly, electrically propelled and safe for differently abled, the ferries will run on lithium titanium spirel batteries.
The first water metro will be launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be on a visit to Kerala on April 25.
Rs 20 for an air conditioned quality experience on water is worth a try!!