Feasibility Study Launched for Aluva-Airport Water Metro.

A feasibility study has been launched to potentially connect Cochin International Airport (Cial) with the city via a Water Metro service. If successful, this new route could provide travelers with a direct link from Aluva to the airport, offering an alternative to road transport.

The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has formed a high-level committee to conduct the study, with a report expected within a month. The decision to explore the Aluva-Nedumbassery route was driven by public demand for extending Water Metro services to the city's outskirts.

The project is part of the Water Metro's second phase of expansion and is a priority due to its potential to alleviate traffic congestion on roads leading to the airport. The service is also expected to increase passenger traffic for both the Kochi Metro and CIAL.

The proposed route would use existing waterways, including the Periyar River. The study will assess the best types of boats, required terminal infrastructure, and connectivity options between the new Water Metro terminals, the Aluva Metro station, and the airport. The distance from Aluva to the airport is about eight kilometers via the river.

Officials will also determine if the service should be a nonstop route or include intermediate stops.

The Kochi Water Metro, which launched in April 2023, currently operates on 15 routes connecting 38 terminals. With the addition of the new Water Metro service, along with ongoing plans for a Metro line and a railway station, the airport is set to become one of the most well-connected transportation hubs in the state.