Argus News - PIB Bhubaneswar Media Delegation Explores Kochi Water Metro

Kochi, Feb 9: A Media delegation from Odisha, led by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Bhubaneswar, visited the Kochi Water Metro as part of its ongoing media tour to Kerala, gaining first-hand insights into India’s pioneering urban water transport initiative.

The delegation interacted with senior officials of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), including Shaji P. Janardhanan, Chief General Manager (Water Transport) and Head of Kochi Water Metro, M.P. Ramnavas, Director (Projects), and K.K. Jayakumar, Head (PR & Social Media). The officials briefed the team on the planning, implementation, and operations of the project, which has emerged as a national model for sustainable and inclusive mobility.

Since its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 25, 2023, the Kochi Water Metro has served over six million passengers, with an average daily ridership of more than 6,000 commuters. Operating with battery-powered electric vessels and modern terminals, the project has reduced carbon emissions while improving connectivity for island communities.

The delegation also discussed India’s integrated vision of leveraging waterways for sustainable transport and cultural connectivity. A feasibility study along the Mahanadi riverfront in Cuttack was highlighted, covering sites such as the Silver City Boat Club, Bali Jatra Grounds, Barabati area, Deer Park, Chahata, Dhabaleswar Temple, Mundali Bridge, Odisha Maritime Museum, and Mandapada viewpoint.

The Kochi Water Metro project envisages 15 routes connecting 10 islands across 78 km, with a fleet of 78 hybrid ferries serving 38 jetties. More than 33,000 islanders are expected to benefit from the initiative.

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The PIB team included Manoj Kumar Kali, Deputy Director, Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer, and Shamila K.Y., Media & Communication Officer, PIB Kochi. Sangram Keshari Sarangi, Editor of Argus Digital, was also part of the delegation.

The media tour aims to promote informed reporting by exposing journalists to innovative infrastructure projects, sustainable development initiatives, and cultural heritage sites of national importance.