Kochi Water Metro Becomes Model for Countries Worldwide Says CM
Global buzz surrounds Kerala’s eco-friendly transport marvel.
Kerala’s Kochi Water Metro has become a global sensation, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan revealing on Saturday, October 11, 2025, that multiple countries are eager to replicate its innovative, eco-friendly model. Speaking at the inauguration of two new terminals at Mattancherry and Willingdon Island, built for Rs 38 crore, Vijayan hailed the project as a shining badge of pride for Malayalis worldwide. The event, held in Kochi—Kerala’s commercial hub—marked a milestone for the state’s pioneering water transport system, which has drawn inquiries from Indian states and international governments alike, all keen to emulate its success.
Launched in 2023, the Water Metro has skyrocketed to nearly 50 million passengers in just two years, serving daily commuters and tourists zipping across Kochi’s scenic backwaters. The addition of the Mattancherry and Willingdon Island terminals brings the network to 12 stations, each constructed entirely on water to preserve the area’s heritage and lush greenery. “This isn’t just transport—it’s a revolution connecting Kochi’s islands to the mainland while slashing urban traffic,” Vijayan declared, underscoring how the electric-powered ferries have eased road congestion and boosted connectivity for isolated communities.
Vijayan framed the Water Metro as a cornerstone of Kerala’s infrastructure leap, complementing the state’s strides in health and education. “We’re setting a national benchmark,” he said, urging collective action to propel Kerala’s progress. The terminals’ eco-conscious design—no trees were harmed—reflects the state’s commitment to sustainable development, blending modern mobility with environmental stewardship. Post-inauguration, Vijayan hopped aboard a ferry from Mattancherry to Willingdon Island, soaking in the system’s sleek efficiency firsthand.
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With global eyes on Kochi, the Water Metro’s blend of green tech and urban utility is sparking a new wave of transit envy. From reducing carbon footprints to linking remote islands, it’s no wonder nations are clamoring to copy Kerala’s playbook. As ridership surges and terminals multiply, Kochi’s waterways are proving that innovation floats—literally. Will this model reshape global cities? The world’s watching Kerala’s waves.
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