Kochi: The Kochi Water Metro’s smooth sail into success has caught the attention of the German government, which is now gearing up to offer more financial support for its expansion. Through the KfW Development Bank, Germany is preparing new loan provisions to help purchase additional boats, signaling a strong vote of confidence in the eco-friendly urban transport initiative.
“Our aim is to make public transport not just functional, but also comfortable, appealing, accessible, and affordable,” said Karen Blum, Deputy Head of the Development Corporation at the German Embassy in New Delhi. She also confirmed that Germany’s technical collaboration with GIZ and Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) will continue.
The Water Metro is also making waves beyond Kerala. The Indian government is exploring the feasibility of similar systems in 24 cities nationwide, and Germany has shown interest in partnering with 17 of them. Cities in the pipeline include Ayodhya, Guwahati, Goa, Kollam, Kolkata, Patna, Varanasi, Mumbai, Lakshadweep, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, among others.
KMRL’s Chief Operating Officer, Sajan P. John, revealed that discussions are underway to add seven more cities to the plan, further expanding the water-based public transport network.
Germany’s commitment is not new—KfW Bank, along with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), had earlier sanctioned a €110 million loan to kickstart the Kochi Water Metro. The initiative is part of the broader Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), aiming to foster safe, inclusive, and environmentally conscious transport for all, including women, children, and differently-abled individuals.
Karen Blum expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress and praised its social impact. “It’s wonderful to see island communities benefit from a modern, sustainable transport system. Though the concept is new, its positive effect on Kochi’s urban life is already clear. With growing ridership, we expect even more gains, including reduced travel time and greater job opportunities,” she said.
She also emphasized efforts to better integrate the Water Metro with Kochi’s existing public transport infrastructure, including connections with low-emission buses and metro lines, ensuring a seamless, climate-friendly commute for residents.
