News Brief

KMRL Begins Hydrology Study For Water Metro Link To Kochi Airport

Arjun Brij

Oct 22, 2025, 04:14 PM | Updated 04:14 PM IST


Cochin International Airport
Cochin International Airport

In a major push to link Cochin International Airport (CIAL) with the city’s expanding water transport network, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) has begun a detailed hydrology study of the Chengal canal near Nedumbassery, according to a Times of India report.

The move marks the first concrete step towards launching Water Metro services to the airport from Aluva.

The study, which will be completed within three months, will assess the canal’s navigability and potential for regular ferry operations.

“We will complete the hydrology study within three months. After the study, KMRL will submit a detailed proposal to state govt for developing the canal as a major water transport way. After the approval, we can start the canal development work,” Sajan P John, chief operating officer of Kochi Water Metro Ltd was quoted as saying by ToI.

The decision to examine the Aluva–Nedumbassery route follows sustained public demand for improved connectivity between Kochi’s outskirts and key destinations.

Once operational, the waterway will provide a faster, congestion-free link between the Metro and the airport, reducing travel time and easing pressure on busy road corridors.

KMRL is also exploring the integration of the proposed Water Metro terminals with Aluva Metro station and the airport. Officials are considering an aerial walkway to connect the two seamlessly.

The 8 km stretch between Aluva and the airport via the Periyar River could serve either as a direct service or with intermediate stops, depending on route feasibility.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has directed KMRL to extend the Water Metro model to other parts of Kerala and replicate it in major Indian cities. With this expansion, CIAL could soon boast a unique triple-mode connectivity.

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Arjun Brij is an Editorial Associate at Swarajya. He tweets at @arjun_brij


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