The initial phase of the initiative will encompass Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Prayagraj, with Tezpur and Dibrugarh following in the second phase.
On Monday, May 18, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways announced that the draft National Water Metro Policy has been forwarded for inter-ministerial consultations, as the government aims to enhance inland water transport as a viable alternative to congested roadways.
Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal reviewed the draft on Monday.
“The proposed water metro systems are considerably less capital-intensive because they utilize existing waterways with minimal civil infrastructure,” PTI quoted Sonowal as stating.
This initiative builds upon the Kochi Water Metro model, which employs electric ferries integrated with urban transit systems.
The ministry indicated that the projects would utilize existing waterways and necessitate less civil infrastructure compared to traditional metro rail systems, resulting in reduced construction and operational expenses. Officials noted that electric and hybrid ferries would also enhance the environmental sustainability of the system.
According to Sonowal, the projects will aim for cities with navigable waterways, populations exceeding one million, and robust commuter or tourism demands. However, exceptions may be considered for areas where water transport can improve connectivity or alleviate traffic congestion.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India has tasked Kochi Metro Rail Limited with conducting feasibility studies for all 18 locations.
Site visits have been finalized, and draft feasibility reports for 17 cities have already been submitted.
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(Edited by : Tenzin Norzom)
First Published: May 19, 2026 9:28 AM IST
