Kochi To Have More Navigable Waterways As Canals Set For Transformation Under Rs 3,716 Crore Urban Revival Plan

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is set to revitalise the city’s historic canal network under the Rs 3,716.10 crore Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS).

The Kerala government has given administrative approval to the project, signalling a major stride toward reshaping Kochi as a water-centric urban hub, The New Indian Express reported.

“I’m delighted that the state government has approved this transformative initiative. The project will not only alleviate monsoon flooding and address the persistent waste management issues in Kochi but also rejuvenate our historic canals with water transport, walkways, and water sports facilities,” said Loknath Behera, Managing Director of KMRL.

The project will deep-clean, widen, and beautify six major canals — Perandoor, Chilavannur, Edappally, Thevara, Konthuruthy, and Market Canal upgrading each to a minimum width of 16.5 metres.

Tree-lined walkways and public spaces along both banks will transform these long-neglected waterways into scenic corridors of movement and leisure.

Key to the plan is the introduction of a new 11.5 km navigable waterway between Muttar and Chitrapuzha via the Edappally Canal. A fleet of 10 low-clearance boats will offer services every 30 minutes.

Additionally, the revitalised Chilavannur canal will enable waterway-metro integration with the Elamkulam metro station via the Vyttila-Thevara Water Metro route.

A “marine drive-style” waterfront is planned for the Chilavannur canal. “This area will soon become a new recreational hub, promoting wellness and lifestyle among residents,” Behera added.

Flood mitigation and mobility will improve with a new 90 metre bridge on Bund Road and reconstruction of the Subash Chandra Bose Road bridge.

Additionally, four sewage treatment plants at Elamkulam, Vennala, Perandoor, and Muttar costing Rs 1,325 crore are being installed by Kerala Water Authority to tackle canal pollution.

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