KWML Expands Electric-Hybrid Ferry Fleet for Greater Kochi
Kochi Water Metro Limited (KWML) has revised its procurement plans, opting for 15 additional electric-hybrid ferries to bolster operations in the Greater Kochi area. Initially, the project aimed to acquire 15 of a planned 30 smaller ferries in its second phase, each designed to carry 50 passengers. Recent decisions have instead steered towards procuring the same number of ferries, but with an increased capacity of 100 passengers each, citing minimal cost differences and improved energy efficiency.
To date, KWML has received 16 out of 23 100-passenger ferries from Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), with the remaining vessels expected to arrive by the end of the year. The decision to move towards larger ferries was driven by the smaller vessels’ limitations in passenger capacity and less efficient energy use. Additionally, the Kerala Inland Vessel Rules mandate the deployment of three crew members per vessel, regardless of size, making the larger ferries more practical.
KWML has planned for a total of 78 electric-hybrid ferries to connect mainland Kochi with 10 surrounding islands as part of the Greater Kochi area’s transport network. Currently, 15 ferries operate on various routes, primarily from the High Court terminal to Vypeen and Fort Kochi, as well as along the Vyttila-Kakkanad corridor. The latest delivery, KWML’s 16th ferry, is scheduled to commence services to Mattancherry by November.
The tender process for the procurement of the 15 new ferries is anticipated to conclude within a month, signaling a significant step forward for the Water Metro project. Sources confirm that preparations for this expansion are well underway, with a total of 38 terminals being readied across the region to support the enhanced fleet.
Photo Credit: H. Vibhu
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/kwml-to-procure-15-more-100-passenger-water-metro-ferries/article68590648.ece
Category : Kerala
Tags:
