In a landmark moment for women empowerment in India’s maritime sector, the Kochi Water Metro is set to introduce the nation’s first-ever female boat pilots after three young women from Kerala completed nearly three years of rigorous training. Arunima A from Alappuzha, Lekshmi R S from Kollam, and Sneha S from Thiruvananthapuram are now on the verge of officially becoming India’s inaugural women boat pilots, shattering long-standing gender barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men.
The trio, all diploma holders in electronics and electrical engineering, began their journey with initial hesitation but soon gained confidence through a supportive environment created by Kochi Water Metro Limited. As Lekshmi recalled, despite entering the programme with only diploma qualifications, the masters and trainers ensured smooth and strong guidance throughout. She noted that steering through challenging routes like the High Court–Fort Kochi stretch and learning emergency maintenance were among the toughest parts of their training. Arunima shared that while her family initially doubted whether she could handle such a large, complex vessel, they are now proud to see women stepping into the maritime cockpit with skill and determination.
Their extensive training came with a stipend of up to ₹19,000 and equipped them to handle everything—from rope work and vessel operations to mastering the advanced functionalities of the Water Metro’s modern electric boats. Trainers emphasised that once familiar with the technology, the vessels become significantly easier to control, especially with cockpit-operated systems. Safety and emergency drills formed another crucial part of their curriculum, preparing them to react swiftly to situations such as rescuing commuters, managing drifting vessels, and taking control through emergency steering systems.
Having completed the mandatory two-year training requirement, the trio has now applied for the Kerala Maritime Board’s ‘Serang’ Certificate, the licence required to operate vessels independently. Kochi Water Metro Chief Operating Officer Sajan P John confirmed that once the certification is issued, the three women will be deployed as solo boat pilots, marking a historic first for the country. Their achievement stands as a powerful testament to women’s growing presence in sectors once considered inaccessible, sending a strong message of empowerment, progress, and equal opportunity across India’s maritime landscape.