Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) is fast-tracking the purchase of 15 new electric ferries to expand its eco-friendly transport network across Kochi’s backwaters. The fleet expansion aims to improve connectivity to underserved island communities and meet growing passenger demand.
The new vessels are expected to serve areas including Kadamakkudy, Paliyamthuruth, Edakochi and Kumbalam. They will also help improve service frequency on busy routes such as High Court–Fort Kochi and Vyttila–Kakkanad.
Each ferry will accommodate up to 100 passengers, with seating for 50. The vessels will feature air-conditioned interiors, electric propulsion and accessibility facilities. The batteries will carry a seven-year warranty, while the boats will have a one-year defects liability period.
KWML expects to award the tenders by November 2026, with deliveries scheduled to begin around the middle of 2027. The additional ferries are expected to reduce peak-hour waiting times on key routes from 15–20 minutes to around 10 minutes.
To support the expanded fleet, additional floating pontoons and charging infrastructure are planned at major terminals, including High Court, Vyttila and South Chittoor.
Once the new vessels enter service, the operational fleet is expected to reach nearly 38 ferries. The long-term plan is to operate 78 vessels connecting 38 terminals across 10 island clusters, strengthening Kochi’s network of sustainable water-based public transport.
