Kochi is set to take another leap in urban water transport as the Kochi Water Metro prepares to launch ferry services to Mattancherry and Willingdon Island starting May 2025. The move is part of the ongoing expansion of Kerala’s pioneering water-based public transit system.
With the terminals at Mattancherry, Willingdon Island, Kumbalam, Paliyamthuruthu, and Kadamakudi nearing completion, Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) is pushing forward with plans to enhance connectivity across Greater Kochi.
Phase-Wise Expansion
Currently, 10 out of the planned 15 terminals under Phase 1 of the project are already operational. The newly added terminals will further streamline city commuting and offer a scenic, eco-friendly alternative to road travel.
According to KWML officials, four of the fleet’s 19 electric-hybrid ferries will be designated for the new routes, operating from the High Court terminal to Mattancherry and Willingdon Island.
Infrastructure Updates
To ensure smooth ferry operations:
– Dredging will soon be conducted at the silt-heavy Mattancherry terminal area.
– A floating pontoon is being installed at the Willingdon Island terminal.
– Mattancherry’s pontoons have been strategically placed further into the backwaters to ensure adequate depth for ferry berthing.
“We expect that the frequent movement of ferries after dredging will help reduce future siltation issues,” said Sajan John, Chief Operating Officer of KWML.
Travel Time & Speed
Ferries on this route will maintain a cruising speed of 8 knots (approximately 15 km/h) and are expected to reach Mattancherry from the High Court terminal in just 20 minutes.
Trial Runs & Operational Readiness
Trial runs for the new route—including stops at Willingdon Island—are scheduled to begin in the coming days. These trial runs will help calibrate schedules, test terminal readiness, and fine-tune boarding operations.
Current Network & Future Plans
The Water Metro currently connects key hubs including:
– High Court
– Fort Kochi
– Vypeen
– South Chittoor
– Cheranalloor
– Eloor
– Vyttila
– Kakkanad
The High Court–Fort Kochi corridor remains the most heavily used, highlighting Kochi’s growing reliance on water-based transport. With more terminals going live soon, commuting in the city is expected to become faster, greener, and more reliable.
The expansion of Kochi Water Metro services to Mattancherry and Willingdon Island is a promising step toward reducing road congestion and enhancing urban mobility. As more residents embrace water transit, Kochi continues to lead as a model for sustainable urban development in India.