Kochi Metro Proposes ₹3,716 Cr Canal Project to Enhance Transport, Tourism.

In a significant move to blend urban renewal with enhanced connectivity and tourism, Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) is set to embark on a major project to transform the city's historical canals. The Kerala state government has given its approval for the ₹3,716.10 crore Integrated Urban Regeneration and Water Transport System (IURWTS), paving the way for substantial changes in Kochi's transportation landscape and tourism offerings.

KMRL Managing Director, Loknath Behera, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "I am delighted that the state government has cleared this transformative initiative." He added that the project aims to achieve multiple objectives: "This project will not only ease monsoon flooding and address Kochi's persistent waste management issues but will also rejuvenate our historic canals with water transport, walkways, and water sports facilities."

The ambitious plan involves the deepening, widening, and beautification of six key canals in Kochi: Perandoor, Chilavannur, Edappally, Thevara, Konthuruthy, and Market Canal. Each of these waterways will be widened to a minimum of 16.5 metres. Alongside the canals, green spaces and aesthetically pleasing walkways will be developed, intended to revitalize these areas into dynamic urban hubs.

As part of the project, KMRL will introduce boat services along the Edappally and Chilavannur canals. A new 11.5-kilometer waterway connecting Muttar to Chitrapuzha via the Edappally Canal will see boats operating at a frequency of every 30 minutes. A fleet of 10 new boats, designed with a height clearance of 3.5 metres, will be deployed to ensure smooth navigation under existing bridges.

The initiative also prioritizes improving intermodal connectivity. The upgraded Chilavannur Canal will link the Vyttila-Thevara Water Metro route to the Elamkulam Metro Station, facilitating seamless urban mobility for commuters.

Adding a recreational dimension, a new waterfront, envisioned to be similar to the popular Marine Drive, is planned along the Chilavannur Canal. This area will feature landscaped paths and facilities for water sports, offering residents a new destination for leisure and recreation. "This area will soon become a new recreational hub, promoting wellness and lifestyle among residents," Behera noted.

To bolster the city's resilience against flooding during heavy rainfall, the project includes the construction of a new 90-metre bridge on Bund Road and the rebuilding of another bridge on Subash Chandra Bose Road, aimed at improving water flow in the canals.

Complementing KMRL's efforts, the Kerala Water Authority is also involved, setting up four sewage treatment plants at Elamkulam, Vennala, Perandoor, and Muttar at a cost of ₹1,325 crore. These critical infrastructure works are being coordinated with KMRL to ensure the overall project proceeds smoothly, according to the KMRL release issued on Sunday.