Kochi Water Metro Update: In a major update for the residents, the Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) is soon likely to award the tender for the purchase of 15 new electric boats. As per the authority, the operation of additional boats will significantly improve the frequency on the key busy routes. Apart from this, it will also further boost the regional connectivity, providing convenience to the commuters.
Ferries To Boost Connectivity
Along with improving the frequency on the busy routes such as High Court-Fort Kochi and Vyttila-Kakkanad, the new ferries will also be utilized to connect the mainland with the other regions, including Edakochi, Kadamakudy, Kumbalam, and Thevara. While providing details, the officials stated that the addition of boats will improve the connectivity, adding that the new ferries will fully operate on electricity.
"The induction of new vessels would help connect more islands with mainland Kochi. We decided to opt for electric ferries after gaining confidence from operating the electric-hybrid ones for over three years," Sajan John, chief operating officer (COO), KWML, was quoted as saying by The Hindu.
Frequency To Improve
The officials also stated that while the current frequency on the Kochi and Kakkanad routes during peak hours is 15 to 20 minutes, it will be reduced to 10 minutes once the new boats begin operation. "The induction of more ferries will enable KWML to operate a ferry every 10 minutes during peak hours on the Fort Kochi and Kakkanad routes, compared with the current frequency of one ferry every 15 to 20 minutes," the COO said.
"To facilitate the increased frequency, more floating pontoons will be installed at the Vyttila and High Court terminals, as well as at the South Chittoor ferry terminal," he added. The authority further stated that the new ferries will be introduced with different designs and better facilities.