India has launched its first-ever "Water Metro" services in Kochi, Kerala, connecting 10 islands around Kochi with electrically propelled hybrid ferries. The project, costing Rs 1,136.83 crore, was funded by the Kerala government and German funding agency KfW. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the project on Tuesday, calling it a significant enhancement to the city's infrastructure. The service will benefit more than a lakh residents of the islands, easing their daily commute and transportation. Manufactured by Cochin Shipyard Limited, the project will begin with eight electric hybrid boats, with a total of 78 electric boats and 38 terminals.

The Kochi Water Metro project's first phase will start with service from High Court-Vypin terminals to Vyttila-Kakkanad terminals, with a minimum ticket rate of Rs 20. The service will offer weekly and monthly passes for regular passengers, and passengers can use the Kochi One Card to travel in both Kochi Metro Rail and Kochi Water Metro. Tickets can be booked digitally through the Kochi One App.

The project has also generated employment opportunities for women in the region, with thirty staff appointed for housekeeping and ticketing from the women self-help group, Kudumbashree. The group expressed that more women would be employed as the need arises. The launch of India's first-ever Water Metro services marks a significant step towards developing the country's water-based transportation infrastructure, promoting eco-friendly transportation and boosting the economy.