DELHI (Metro Rail News): The central government has started planning Water Metro Services in 18 cities across the country. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said Guwahati will be part of the first phase along with Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has also circulated the Draft National Water Metro Policy 2026 for consultation with different ministries and state governments.
Project Snapshot
| Details | Information |
| Project | National Water Metro Programme |
| Cities Planned | 18 |
| Phase 1 Cities | Guwahati, Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj |
| Assam Cities in Phase 1 | Tezpur and Dibrugarh |
| Current Status | Draft policy circulated |
| Model | Based on Kochi Water Metro |
The central government now wants to expand the success of Kochi Water Metro to other parts of the country. The project plans to use rivers and waterways for public transport in cities. Officials believe this can reduce traffic on roads and offer a cleaner and cheaper travel option.
Sarbananda Sonowal said Water Metro projects cost less compared to many large transport systems because they use existing waterways. He said that electric and hybrid terries can reduce fuel costs and pollution while giving passengers a smooth travel experience. The minister also asked the government to study and draft policy and share their suggestions.
What the policy will include
The proposed Water Metro systems will work for both daily commuters and tourists. The project will include,
- Electric and hybrid terries
- Jatties and floating pontoons
- Passenger terminals
- Charging stations
- Navigation systems
- Integration with metro, rail and bus networks
Officials are also planning to standardise vessel design and safety systems across all cities.
How cities will be selected
According to the ministry, priority will go to cities with,
- Proper waterways
- High population
- Strong travel demand
- Tourist movement
The government may also relax conditions for cities where the project can reduce road congestion or improve connectivity in remote areas.
Reports are ready for most cities
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) asked Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) to conduct feasibility studies for 18 cities in February 2015. Officials have already completed site visits in all locations. Draft reports are ready for 17 cities. The Lakshadweep report is still pending. The ministry has already accepted reports for Srinagar, Patna, Guwahati, Varanasi, and Ayodhya.
The government is also discussing several funding models, including,
- Joint funding by Centre and States
- Fully state funded projects
- Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects
- Fully Centre funded projects
Officials also want to keep long term operating costs low through better planning and efficient fleet management.
Focus on local culture and green transport
Sonowal mentioned that terminals and other infrastructure should reflect local culture and architecture. He also said that authorities should involve students and local communities to spread awareness about water transport. The ministry is planning to highlight fuel savings and environmental benefits as major advantages of the project. If the project moves forward as planned, Water Metro services could change urban travel in many Indian cities by offering cleaner, faster and less crowded transport options.
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