Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has brought international recognition by winning the prestigious UITP Impact Award 2026* for its innovative and sustainable multimodal integration initiative that seamlessly connects metro rail, water metro, feeder services, non-motorised transport and other mobility options.

The Impact award was presented at the UITP Awards 2026 ceremony held in Brussels, Belgium.

Organised by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP), the awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious global recognitions in the public transport sector, honouring outstanding and innovative mobility projects from across the world.

KMRL has emerged as a national leader in reducing carbon emissions and multimodal mobility through initiatives such as the Kochi Water Metro, integrated ticketing systems, electric feeder bus services, last-mile connectivity solutions and transit-oriented development projects. The recognition from UITP further strengthens Kochi’s position as a global model for sustainable urban mobility.

Loknath Behera, Managing Director, KMRL said that the award is a recognition of Kochi Metro’s commitment to providing world-class, sustainable and passenger-centric mobility solutions. KMRL has consistently focused on integrating various modes of transport to make public transport more accessible and attractive to commuters.

KMRL received the award for its project titled “Kochi Metro Rail: A Sustainable Multi Modal Integration Project for Better Connectivity”, which was recognised for creating an integrated urban mobility ecosystem that offers passengers seamless, convenient and environmentally sustainable travel options. The project combines metro rail, water metro, feeder buses, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, bicycle-sharing facilities and digital mobility solutions into a unified transport network.

The award is expected to provide greater international visibility to Kochi’s innovative mobility initiatives and support KMRL’s efforts to replicate and expand integrated transport solutions in other cities as well.

Published on June 26, 2026