Kochi Water Metro has issued a tender for the construction of the Ernakulam terminal near the SWTD boat jetty. The terminal is planned to become a key hub for the Water Metro network, facilitating future expansions to southern and western regions, including Kumbalam and Edakochi.
Terminal to Become Network Hub
“The Ernakulam terminal will serve as a vital link in the expansion of the Water Metro network. Services connecting the western and southern parts will start once construction is completed. Current operations will continue from the High Court terminal,” said Sajan P John, chief operating officer of Kochi Water Metro Ltd (KWML).
Previously, the proposed Thevara terminal was intended to be the cornerstone of the Water Metro’s expansion, acting as a feeder hub to connect Kadavanthra and southern areas. However, plans stalled after KSRTC declined to transfer its largely unused depot land to KWML. This prompted authorities to designate Ernakulam terminal as the primary future hub.
Features of the New Terminal
Once completed, the Ernakulam terminal will be the largest, along with the High Court terminal. It will feature floating pontoons to keep the boat floors level with the jetty regardless of tidal changes. The terminal will include spacious passenger waiting areas, ticket counters with AFC gates, and commercial spaces for kiosks and cafes. Construction is expected to take approximately 15 months from the date the contract is awarded.
Tender and Expansion Timeline
KWML has already floated the tender, with a bid submission deadline set for March 21. The final selection of contractors is expected within two months. The authority also plans to begin construction of additional terminals at Edakochi, Thoppumpady, and Varappuzha.
Kadamakkudy Services Delayed
Expansion into the Kadamakkudy island cluster will now be targeted for a June launch. Officials cited the upcoming election code of conduct and logistical delays, including the pending delivery of three out of 23 vessels from Cochin Shipyard Ltd. The route will include a detour via Vypeen or Vallarpadam to safeguard nearly 40 traditional Chinese fishing nets along the direct Pizhala-Kadamakkudy stretch. Initially, KWML plans to operate Kadamakkudy as a demand-based tourist service rather than a high-frequency commuter route.
