KERALA (Metro Rail & Steel): In a significant leap towards energy self-sufficiency, the Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) has unveiled ambitious plans to deploy rooftop solar installations at all Water Metro terminals across the city. This green initiative is poised to propel Kochi’s public transport system toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
KWML estimates that a total of eight megawatts (MW) of energy is required to power its operations, a goal that can be realized through various solar projects supported by the government. The strategic approach involves the installation of rooftop solar systems at existing terminals, with future terminals also incorporated into this initiative.
Sajan P John, the CEO of KWML, disclosed that, in addition to solar panels adorning terminal rooftops, a dedicated solar plant will be established in Alappuzha district, exclusively catering to the energy needs of the Water Metro boats. Currently, Water Metro operates 12 electric-hybrid boats across three routes in the city, with four additional routes set to launch in the coming weeks. These eco-conscious vessels, crafted by Cochin Shipyard Limited, are renowned for their unique features, as reported by Times Of India.
Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has already made significant strides in the realm of renewable energy. More than 50 percent of KMRL’s energy requirements are currently met through solar power generated by various solar plants. With Kochi Metro requiring 20MW of energy for seamless operation, KMRL already produces approximately 11MW from its solar installations.
Loknath Behera, the Managing Director of both KMRL and KWML, has affirmed that the Water Metro is well on its way to achieving complete energy self-sufficiency by 2024. The accolades don’t stop there for the Water Metro, as it recently received national recognition, being honored with the “Best Green Initiative” award at the Urban Mobility India Conference held in Delhi.
Kochi Water Metro: A Game-Changer for Sustainable Urban Transport
The Kochi Water Metro is an integrated water transport initiative designed to enhance connectivity between the mainland and the islands of Kochi. This transformative project aims to uplift the livelihoods and living standards of both islanders and the general public, benefitting more than 100,000 islanders.
The project also promises to significantly reduce travel time within the city, easing traffic congestion and reducing the city’s carbon footprint. With Phase I scheduled to be fully operational in 2024, the Water Metro will serve an estimated 34,000 passengers daily. The Kochi Water Metro project encompasses the development of 15 identified routes connecting 38 jetties across 10 islands and two boatyards, with a total line length of 76.2 kilometers. Beyond its immediate benefits, the project aligns with India’s goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2070.
The Water Metro boats were thoughtfully designed to minimize noise and wave effects, protecting the banks and the local flora and fauna along the waterways. To prevent discharges from harming the backwaters and Vembanad Lake, toilets were intentionally omitted from the vessels.
Furthermore, efforts are underway to identify land in several districts of Kerala for the establishment of a 17 MW solar farm, a pivotal step towards achieving carbon-neutral status for the Water Metro. According to Behera, both Kochi Metro rail services and the Water Metro will transition to full solar power by 2024, marking a significant milestone in India’s sustainable transportation journey.
