KERALA (Metro Rail News): After the success of the Kochi Water Metro, the Kerala government is now planning to introduce similar services in other districts as well including Alappuzha and Kollam. Transport Minister C.P. John said in the Assembly that Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) conducted a feasibility study. The government has already submitted the reports to Inland Waterways Authorities of India (IWAI). The State Government wants to utilise Kerala’s vast network of waterways for improving public transport and reducing burden on roads.
Expansion is taking shape
Alappuzha, Kollam have been identified for the upcoming phase. Officials believe water transport could be a faster, more convenient way for transportation in districts with extensive networks of rivers, canals, backwaters. The government also intends to increase cargo movement through waterways rather than roads.
Government pushes cargo movement through waterways
The government also wants to move more goods through waterways instead of roads. To support this plan, the Kerala State Inland Navigation Corporation has prepared 10 barges for cargo transportation. Officials expect this move to reduce heavy truck traffic on roads while promoting inland water transport.
Green transport goal by 2031
The Transport Minister also mentioned that the water transport department has set a target to become environmentally friendly by 2031. The department aims to achieve:
- Zero energy consumption
- Zero emissions
- Zero fuel costs
As part of this plan:
- 60% of its boats will run on solar power.
- 50% of its stations will use solar energy.
The Vaikom Water Transport Station has already become India’s first fully solar-powered water transport station.
Solar boats brings recognition
C.P. John also highlighted the achievements of Aditya, which is India’s first eco-friendly solar-powered passenger boat. Aditya won the Gustav Trouvé as the world’s best electric boat, a recognition that the minister described as a major achievement for Kerala. Solar-powered boats such as Aditya and Indra have also helped reduce pollution and operating costs. He further mentioned that water-based tourism projects such as Kuttanad Safari, Vega, Sea Kuttanad and Sea Ashtamudi have also been initiated to boost the tourism sector. Infrastructure upgrades are being carried out in state, and the service is now equipped with more steel and fibre catamaran boats to enhance speed and efficiency.