Alappuzha is set to get its own Water Metro service, modeled after the successful Kochi Water Metro project. The feasibility study for the project will be completed by December, according to officials from Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), which has been entrusted with the responsibility of developing the project.
A similar Water Metro project is also being planned for Kollam. Both initiatives are designed to improve water-based transport while simultaneously boosting tourism in these regions. The feasibility study will analyze the proposed routes, boats, jetties, operational areas, and related infrastructure before final decisions are made, KMRL officials said.
Alappuzha and Kollam were chosen due to their extensive network of backwaters and the high volume of passengers in these regions. Thousands of tourists visit Alappuzha every day to experience its scenic beauty, and the new project is expected to enhance tourism potential across the district’s water-bound areas.
Officials emphasized that the Water Metro service will not disrupt the existing services operated by the State Water Transport Department. The new system will use fully solar-powered boats, ensuring zero environmental pollution. The boats will be modern and air-conditioned, providing a comfortable experience for both locals and tourists.
Like the Kochi Water Metro, all boats will be centrally managed from an integrated Operation Control Centre (OCC). The priority routes under consideration include Alappuzha–Muhamma–Pathiramanal–Kumarakom, which attract a large number of tourists throughout the year.
Once operational, the Alappuzha Water Metro is expected to become a game-changer for eco-friendly transport and tourism in Kerala’s backwaters.
