Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a unique water-based metro system that will connect multiple islands around Kochi.
With commercial operations tentatively scheduled for July, this innovative mode of transportation promises to offer the same level of convenience and ease of travel as conventional metros, but on water.
Key features of Kochi’s water metro
Termed as an exceptional urban mass transit system, this metro will utilize electric-hybrid boats that will be equipped with floating pontoons to maintain a consistent level, regardless of the tide’s height or intensity.
During the initial phase, the water metro will commence operations from the High Court-Vypin terminal to the Vyttila-Kakkanad terminal.
Tickets will be priced at a minimum of INR 20, and passengers can opt for weekly, monthly, or quarterly passes.
Furthermore, the ‘Kochi 1’ card can be utilized for travel on both the water metro and Kochi’s metro rail, providing a convenient mode of payment for commuters.
The water metro system as a whole will comprise of 78 air-conditioned boats, linking 38 terminals across ten islands and covering a 76-km route over water.
This ambitious project, with a total value of INR 1,137 crore, is funded jointly by the Kerala government and the German bank KfW.
Here’s what the water metro looks like:
New types of metros to be introduced:
In a deliberate effort to avoid a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to improving connectivity in tier-2 and smaller cities, the government plans to introduce urban mass transit systems that are tailored to the specific needs of each city.
While these systems will bear similarities to conventional metros, they will be scaled down in size to suit the requirements of the respective cities.
Metro Lite
A cost-effective mass rapid transit system is currently in the works for smaller cities such as Jammu, Srinagar, and Gorakhpur.
This system is projected to cost only 40 percent of a conventional metro, while still offering a comparable experience in terms of comfort and convenience.
Metro Neo
Designed to resemble an electric bus trolley, the proposed metro system for Nasik will feature rubber-tyred electric coaches operated by an overhead traction system.
These coaches will run on dedicated roadways with exclusive right of way.
With a capacity to cater to up to 8,000 passengers during peak hour peak direction traffic, this innovative system is being planned to address the transportation needs of Nasik.
Regional Rapid Transit System
Designed as a high-speed commuter service to enhance connectivity across the national capital region, this innovative system can be likened to a cross-over of metro service and interstate passenger trains.
It will operate on dedicated corridors with high frequency, providing efficient transportation options.
The first phase of this system is slated to be launched between Delhi and Meerut in 2025.
