Kochi Water Metro Terminals To Now Have Shops, Hangout Spots For Passengers; Tenders To Be Out Soon

The Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) is planning to expand its non-fare revenue models across major terminals to increase financial capacity and reach a break-even point. The government-owned company will now allow shops and stalls at several terminals, along with kiosks for passenger convenience. The KWML will also allow companies to advertise their products inside the water metro.

“Inside the boats, we have display boards where companies can advertise their products. We are also leasing out space at our terminals for small shops and the like,” Kochi Water Metro Chief Operating Officer (COO) Sajan P John said, quoted by The New Indian Express.

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What Are The Non-Fare Revenue Models?

The following approaches have been proposed by officials to increase revenue:

- Provide branding opportunities to companies inside the boats.

- Lease out spaces at terminals to set up shops.

- Establish seasonal kiosks that cater to passenger needs.

- Open hangout spots at selected stations.

“This plan is very much on. All three parties, the water metro, GCDA and Kochi Corporation, have come to an understanding. Tendering procedures will begin soon,” the Kochi Water Metro COO said.

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Which Terminals Will See The Rollout Of These Plans First?

- Kakkanad and Vyttila stations will be the first two terminals where the plans will be rolled out.

- Besides these two stations, the High Court terminal, featuring a seasonal book kiosk and two refreshment outlets serving high passenger footfall, has already evolved into a small social hub.

- According to available data, terminals where the non-fare revenue models can be set up are High Court, Vyttila, Kakkanad and Vypin terminals. All these terminals have a cumulative commercial activity space of nearly 39,000 sq ft.

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Kochi Water Metro

The Kochi Water Metro is the first water metro in India, with air-conditioned electric-hybrid boats. The metro connects 10 island communities to the mainland, easing road congestion and reducing pollution. The transport commenced its operations in 2023 and since then has seen ridership of over 57 lakh passengers.