Kerala, known for its unique geography and cultural richness, is at the forefront of innovative urban mobility solutions.
Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, in an exclusive interaction with Nisha Samant of Elets News Network (ENN), sheds light on how Kerala is positioning itself as a model for sustainable urban mobility, blending innovation, technology, and inclusivity for a greener future.
Could you share your vision for sustainable urban mobility in Kerala? What are the key components of this vision?
As you know, there is a fine line between urban and rural areas in Kerala. Our villages are often as developed as towns or urban areas. Therefore, sustainable urban mobility should not be confined to a few cities and towns but should encompass the entire state.
We are also planning to introduce state-of- the-art modern vehicles that offer passenger comfort while being sustainable across Kerala. This will not only protect our environment but also reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, we envisage the implementation of sustainable water transport wherever feasible in Kerala in the near future.
Sir, in March 2024, you inaugurated four terminals at the Kochi Water Metro. During the inauguration, you emphasised the project’s environmental sustainability. Can you elaborate on the specific sustainable technologies and practices being implemented in this project?
The boats used in the Kochi Water Metro are hybrid, equipped with both electric and POL (petroleum, oil, and lubricants) components. However, the POL component is reserved for emergencies, and the boats primarily run on electricity generated from LTO (Lithium Titanate Oxide) batteries. This initiative is crucial for protecting our backwaters, lakes, and rivers.
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Furthermore, there are plans to integrate solar electricity into the charging stations for LTO batteries. The double-hulled boats, constructed from aluminium, are an innovative design that contributes to environmental protection. Operational protocols have also been established with environmental conservation as the primary objective.
How has Kerala’s unique geography (e.g., backwaters and coastal areas) impacted urban mobility planning? For example, how has the infrastructure planning for Kochi Metro Rail Limited or the Kochi Water Metro Project been influenced by geographical factors?
Kerala’s geography is indeed unique. Within a narrow stretch of land, we have the sea, plains, and hills. This topography, combined with abundant rainfall and a near-equatorial climate, significantly influences urban development and planning.
For instance, we have a robust water transport system utilising backwaters, rivers, and even the sea, which is widely used in urban areas. Recognising its importance, infrastructure for water transport is being developed. Kochi, being the busiest city with a high population density, needed sustainable land transport solutions. The Kochi Metro addresses this by decongesting roads and reducing carbon emissions.
Similarly, the Kochi Water Metro was conceptualised due to Kochi’s geographical features. Plans are now underway to rejuvenate the city’s canals through infrastructure development, making them viable for urban public transport.
How can Kerala leverage new sustainable technologies like electric vehicles, ride-sharing apps, and smart traffic management systems to improve urban mobility?
Kerala has a large number of motor vehicles, and the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is steadily increasing. The government is actively promoting EVs among public agencies, PSUs, and citizens as a step towards sustainable transport. To support this, a significant number of charging stations are being installed across the state, with digital platforms identifying suitable locations for future expansion.
Innovative mobile applications are also being introduced to enhance public convenience. These include platforms for ticketing, reservations, real-time schedule updates, and remote-controlled parking. Additionally, plans are in place to establish a Transport Technology Mission to integrate all modes of public transport. In summary, Kerala is already implementing smart traffic management systems driven by IT-based solutions.
Public transport is a cornerstone of urban mobility. Can you discuss any upcoming initiatives to enhance the efficiency and reach of public transportation in Kerala’s urban areas?
Public transport has always been robust in Kerala. However, recent years have seen a significant increase in private vehicles. Kerala is among the few states where even remote areas are well-connected by public transport.
To further enhance public transportation, we are acquiring state-of-the- art vehicles and exploring hydrogen mobility. We are also transitioning to cashless payment systems for public transport. The Kochi Metro has already implemented several initiatives, and KSRTC is expected to follow suit shortly.
Also Read | Kerala Govt approves Rs 378.57 crore for Kochi Metro’s Phase II Pink Line construction
Implementing sustainable mobility solutions often requires significant investment. How is Kerala financing its urban mobility projects? Are there any partnerships with other governments, the private sector, or international bodies?
Like other states, financing public transport projects is challenging without support from the Central Government. While some solutions have been implemented using state funds, major projects require Central Government financing.
For instance, projects like the Silver Line, MetroRailexpansionsinThiruvananthapuram, and the Kochi Metro extension to Nedumbassery Airport demand substantial Central Government investment. We also encourage Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a policy measure and have secured loans from multilateral agencies for projects such as the Water Metro and Kochi Metro.
Public transport is critical for a developed Kerala and a developed India. I strongly believe the Central Government should play a more significant role in financing such initiatives for the greater public good.
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