Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with SCMS Water Institute to carry out a feasibility study for extending the city’s Water Metro network from Aluva Metro Station to Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) via the Periyar River. The proposed corridor aims to create a seamless, water‑based public transport option that strengthens last‑mile connectivity between Kochi’s metro system and the international airport.
Focus on sustainable urban mobility and multimodal integration
The initiative is part of KMRL’s long‑term plan to build an integrated, efficient and environmentally sustainable multimodal transport system for the Kochi urban region. By using inland waterways for passenger movement, the project is expected to reduce road congestion, cut emissions and support Kochi’s positioning as a hub for climate‑resilient urban mobility solutions.
SCMS Water Institute as knowledge partner
Under the MoU, SCMS Water Institute will act as KMRL’s knowledge partner for the feasibility study, offering academic, technical and research inputs across key stages of the project. The institute’s specialised expertise will help design and evaluate the corridor in line with safety, environmental and operational best practices.
Technical studies on Periyar River corridor
The feasibility study will cover a range of water‑related investigations, including floodplain mapping, hydraulic and hydrological assessments, and water resources modelling along the proposed route on the Periyar River. These scientific analyses will be used to determine technical viability, identify infrastructure requirements such as jetties and terminals, and outline measures to manage river dynamics and extreme weather events.
Potential benefits for commuters and regional connectivity
Once implemented, the Aluva–CIAL water metro link is expected to offer commuters a faster and more reliable alternative to road travel between the metro network and the airport, particularly during peak traffic periods. The corridor would also enhance regional connectivity in the Greater Kochi area, supporting tourism, business travel and wider economic activity around the airport and neighbouring towns.
Strengthening India’s urban water transport blueprint
KMRL’s push to extend water metro connectivity to an international airport adds to India’s emerging blueprint for using inland waterways as part of urban public transport systems. Learnings from this feasibility study could inform similar projects in other riverine and coastal cities looking to integrate metro, bus, and water‑based services into a unified, low‑carbon mobility network.
