Kochi’s Water Metro Expands: Mattancherry Terminal Set For April Launch To Boost Connectivity In High-Traffic Corridor

Kochi’s ambitious Water Metro network is poised for further expansion as the long-awaited Mattancherry terminal prepares to become operational in April, The Hindu reported.

This will mark a significant boost in connectivity between Kochi city and West Kochi, particularly the high-traffic corridors to Fort Kochi and Mattancherry.

The Water Metro, a first-of-its-kind integrated water transport system in India, has already transformed urban commuting by offering modern, eco-friendly, electric-hybrid ferries that provide seamless connectivity with the Kochi Metro and bus networks.

The addition of the Mattancherry terminal is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, improve daily commutes, and cater to an influx of tourists during the summer vacation and the Onam season.

“Once ready, the Water Metro terminal will be able to berth up to three electric-hybrid ferries at a time, with additional space for berthing ferries at night. The extension of Water Metro ferries from the city to Mattancherry is expected to be followed by a further extension to the upcoming terminal on Willingdon Island”, official sources confirmed.

Following this, services are likely to extend further to Willingdon Island, a crucial maritime and commercial hub.

Four ferries, including one set to be handed over by Cochin Shipyard later this month, will be deployed to link the High Court and Mattancherry terminals, complementing the highly successful High Court–Fort Kochi corridor.

Floating pontoons are being installed to ensure safe berthing at sufficient water depth, similar to Fort Kochi.

To further integrate the Water Metro with Kochi’s urban transport ecosystem, three circular electric feeder bus routes have been introduced, connecting the High Court terminal to MG Road, Maharaja’s College Ground, and General Hospital.

Running every 10 minutes from 7:45 am to 8 pm, these AC e-buses offer last-mile connectivity at a fare of Rs 20, boosting ferry ridership.

Meanwhile, the State Water Transport Department (SWTD) is enhancing traditional ferry operations by deploying a new 100-seater catamaran to extend night services to Mattancherry.

However, commuter groups have raised concerns about poorly lit jetty areas, prompting appeals to the Chief Minister and Electricity Minister for urgent intervention.

Also Read: Bengaluru’s Namma Metro Plans Massive Expansion As BMRCL Nears Feasibility Study Completion In City's Outer Areas