The Kochi Water Metro, India’s first water-based metro system, has been featured in UN Habitat’s World Cities Report 2024: Cities and Climate Action. The report recognizes the project for its innovative integration of sustainable urban development and climate resilience.

Highlighting the untapped potential of waterway transport in urban areas, the report praises the Kochi Water Metro as a model for low-carbon mobility. Designed with lightweight, recyclable materials and equipped with electric propulsion systems, the fleet minimizes environmental impact by reducing emissions, noise pollution, and waterway disruption. It’s expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 22,400 tonnes annually.

Launched commercially in April 2023, the project aims to connect 10 island communities to the mainland by 2035, operating a fleet of 78 electric hybrid boats across 76 kilometers. With 30 terminals on 15 routes, the metro is projected to serve 1,00,000 passengers daily. Its commitment to sustainability includes a 17 MWp solar plant for 100% renewable energy operations, aligning with India’s carbon-neutrality goals for 2070.

The Water Metro’s recognition underscores its potential to inspire global urban mobility solutions.