The Media Tour of Kochi Water Metro Project Organized by PIB Srinagar
Today marked the commencement of the media tour organized by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar to Kerala, with a visit to Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL). The press delegation was provided with insights into the pioneering urban mobility initiative, the Kochi Water Metro Project.
Exploring Kochi Metro Rail Limited
During the first day of the tour, the press delegation from PIB Srinagar visited the office of Kochi Metro Rail Limited in Kochi. They had the opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the planning, implementation, and operational framework of the Kochi Water Metro. The delegation engaged with senior officials of KMRL and the Kochi Water Metro Project.
The media delegation had the privilege of meeting key personalities such as Shri Loknath Behera, Managing Director of KMRL, Dr. M.P. Ram Navas, Director (Projects) at KMRL, Shri Shaji Janardanan, Chief General Manager at KMRL, Shri Sajan John, Chief Operating Officer of Kochi Water Metro, and Shri K.K. Jayakumar, Head of PR & Social Media at KMRL.
Insights into the Water Metro Concept
Shri Loknath Behera, Managing Director of KMRL, described the Water Metro as a time-saving and integrated mobility concept that enables seamless cross-platform ticketing between water and rail metro services. He emphasized the importance of human interface, attention to detail, cleanliness, efficient ticketing systems, and the creation of a viable ecosystem for the success of any public transport system.
Shri Sajan John, COO of Kochi Water Metro, elaborated on the objectives and vision of the project, highlighting its role as a climate-resilient, sustainable, and inclusive transport system. The project aims to provide universal and equitable access, improved safety standards, and a shift towards green, low-polluting mobility solutions.
Operational Excellence
Shri Shaji Janardanan, CGM at KMRL, explained the operational aspects of the project, including terminal accessibility, safety measures such as the deployment of rescue boats, and the use of battery-operated vessels with dedicated charging docks to minimize the carbon footprint.
National and International Recognition
The Kochi Water Metro was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on April 25, 2023. Feasibility studies for similar water metro systems have been conducted in 15 cities across the country, including Srinagar, with Mumbai identified as the next potential location. The project, a joint initiative of the Government of India, the Government of Kerala, and Kochi Metro, has received numerous national and international accolades.
Hands-On Experience
As part of the program, the media delegation was provided with a hands-on experience of the project through a ferry ride on the Kochi Water Metro. This allowed for a practical exposure to the operations and passenger facilities of the system.
Ms. Shamila K Y, Media & Communication Officer at PIB Kochi, accompanied the delegation during the visit. Shri Majid Pandit, Media & Communication Officer at PIB Srinagar and Conducting Officer of the tour, introduced the media delegation at the outset of the meeting.
