Centre inaugurates Kochi Integrated Water Transport Project in Kerala

The Central Government inaugurated the Kochi integrated water transport project on April 25, 2023. The project involves the development of an integrated water transport system in Kochi in Kerala. It is partially being funded by the KfW Development Bank through a loan assistance and the remaining cost is being funded by the state government. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 7.47 billion. The water metro boat service will operate in the backwaters of Kochi, connecting 10 nearby islands with the mainland of Kochi, the commercial hub of Kerala. The project is envisaged with 38 jetties, and 78 boats, covering a distance of 76 km. Besides, these boats are non-polluting, battery-powered, noise-free and produce low waves, unlike traditional ferries. Further, boat re-charging facilities have been provided in all terminals. Currently, Kerala Water Transport Department is operating around 200 odd boat services on different routes, which mainly connect Vypin islands to Kochi.