State media team visits Kochi Water Metro

IMPHAL, Feb 23 (PIB):   As a part of the ongoing media exposure visit to Kerala organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Imphal, a media delegation from Manipur today toured the Kochi Water Metro, an innovative and environmentally sustainable urban water transport initiative implemented by Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL).
The visiting journalists were welcomed and briefed by Loknath Behera, Managing Director, KMRL. The session was also attended by officials including Dr MP Ram Navas, Director (Projects), KMRL; Sanjay Kumar, Director (Systems), KMRL; Shaji Janardanan, Chief General Manager, KMRL; Sajan John, Chief Operating Officer, Kochi Water Metro; and KK Jayakumar, Head, PR and Social Media.
Shamila KY, Media and Communication Officer, PIB Kochi also joined the delegation during the visit.
During the interaction, Behera made a detailed video presentation highlighting the operational framework, technological features and infrastructure of the Water Metro system.
He explained that the project offers a time-efficient and integrated mobility solution, with seamless connectivity and common ticketing between water transport and the rail metro network.
He stressed that the success of any public transport system depends on strong human engagement, precision in planning and execution, cleanliness, user-friendly ticketing, and the development of a sustainable and financially viable ecosystem.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring that aquatic ecosystems are not disturbed while implementing such water transport systems. He also underlined the need for close coordination and detailed consultations with all concerned and allied departments before taking up the project.
The Kochi Water Transport Project was presented as a model for inclusive, accessible and green urban mobility, demonstrating effective multimodal integration and alignment with global sustainability objectives.
The Kochi Water Metro project envisages the development of 15 identified routes, connecting 10 islands across a 78-km network.
At present, 20 boats and 12 terminals are operational under the Water Metro.
An interactive question-and-answer session followed, where the delegation sought clarifications on various aspects including the feasibility of introducing a similar system in Loktak Lake of Manipur, sources of funding, operational challenges, employment opportunities and long-term sustainability.
Responding to the queries, KMRL officials assured that technical guidance and support would be extended to any State interested in developing water-based public transport systems in the future.
The delegation also visited Jew Town, a historic neighbourhood known for its vibrant cultural heritage, traditional spice markets and antique shops that reflect Kochi’s long- standing maritime and trade connections.
The visit provided the journalists an opportunity to experience the city’s rich multicultural legacy and interaction of diverse communities over centuries.
The team further explored the Mattancherry Palace, popularly known as the Dutch Palace.
The visit offered deeper insight into the State’s cultural traditions and historical heritage.