Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has been instrumental in redefining urban mobility in Kerala. With a keen focus on integration, innovation, and sustainability, KMRL aims to enhance public transport systems and improve the quality of life for commuters, shares Shri Loknath Behera, Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) in an exclusive interaction with Nisha Samant of Elets News Network (ENN).
Kochi Metro has been a success story for urban mobility in India. What is your vision for the future of the Kochi Metro?
Kerala’s villages are urban in nature in almost every aspect, and urban mobility in Kerala should be viewed in the context of the entire state. Kerala, a leader in many aspects of life in the country, should aim to provide the best public transport system with seamless intermodal integration. Our goal is to combine and integrate all public transport modes—physically, virtually, economically, and socially.
Kochi, being the busiest and most populated city in Kerala and home to the highest number of motor vehicles, introduced Metro Rail operations in 2017. By 2024, we have 27 kilometres of Metro Rail with 25 stations. The Metro has significantly reduced road congestion in the city and integrated various public transport modes, including the Water Metro. In the future, all public transport modes will be integrated physically and digitally to better serve the public. Some initiatives have already been undertaken by KMRL in this direction.
Phase 2 of the Kochi Metro is underway. What are some of the key technological advancements or passenger-centric features we can expect to see implemented?
Metro Rail technology has been standardised for quite some time, leaving limited scope for significant advancements. However, we aim to enhance the system further, possibly by introducing passenger safety doors at stations. Our team of technologists is also exploring the feasibility of implementing driverless trains, as seen in other parts of the world.
In Phase 2, our metro stations will be designed to be more people-friendly, incorporating advanced digital technologies to make travel easier and more convenient for everyone.
The Kochi Water Metro project is another exciting development. How do you see the Metro and Water Metro integrating to create a seamless multi-modal transport system in Kochi?
The integration of tickets and cards between the Kochi Metro and Water Metro has already been achieved. We are working to extend this integration to other public transport modes such as auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis. Currently, this system operates on QR code technology, but we plan to enhance it to ensure greater reliability and security.
Kochi, like many Indian cities, faces challenges with land acquisition and project timelines. How has KMRL tackled these challenges, and what advice would you give to other metro projects facing similar issues?
In a state like Kerala, where land acquisition pressures are high, challenges are inevitable. These challenges can affect project timelines. However, through persuasive methods and continuous follow-ups, we ensure land is acquired within a reasonable timeframe. No project under KMRL has been halted due to land acquisition issues.
While difficulties and litigations are part of the process, they can be managed effectively. For other metro projects, I recommend involving top management in land acquisition processes and forming dedicated teams with local advisors to streamline efforts.
Increasing commuters is crucial for the financial viability of any metro project. What innovative strategies has KMRL employed to attract more commuters?
Attracting more commuters to the Metro and Water Metro is crucial for their success. KMRL has implemented several strategies, including:
- Integrating multiple transport modes (buses, boats, and auto-rickshaws) into a unified ticketing system to enhance passenger convenience.
- Introducing passenger-friendly services like free Wi-Fi, bicycle-sharing schemes, and e-rickshaws for last-mile connectivity.
- Launching various travel cards, such as Vidya 1, Vidya 30, and Vidya 45, with discounted fares for students.
- Developing commercial spaces and entertainment zones within metro stations to create a holistic travel experience.
- Organising community engagement programs, such as art installations and cultural events, to make the metro system an integral part of the city’s social fabric.
We will continue to take more initiatives to attract and retain passengers.
The Kochi Metro has been praised for its safety record. Can you share some insights into the safety measures and protocols implemented at KMRL?
Safety is a top priority at Kochi Metro. From the Managing Director to the ground staff, everyone is trained and made aware of safety protocols. Regular training sessions are conducted at all levels, including top management, to ensure safety during construction and operations. Safety manuals are frequently updated, and new methodologies are introduced.
We also employ safety consultants to review and enhance our practices. This proactive approach has helped us maintain an excellent safety record among metro systems.
Also Read | Sustainable Urban Mobility In Kerala
Sustainability is a major concern. How is KMRL working to make the Kochi Metro a more environmentally friendly mode of transport?
Metro trains are inherently environment-friendly. At KMRL, we are working to enhance sustainability through various initiatives, including:
- Introducing electric vehicles for first-mile and last-mile connectivity.
- Exploring the use of electric buses as feeder services for the Metro and Water Metro.
- Developing hydrogen mobility solutions for the Water Metro and feeder buses.
- Appointing a dedicated Sustainability Officer at an executive level to oversee and innovate in sustainability efforts.
- Encouraging young professionals in the company to prioritize sustainability in their projects.
These measures aim to make the Kochi Metro a leader in environmentally sustainable transportation.
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