Water Metro services to be expanded to 20 Indian cities, govt begins feasibility studies

The Indian government is preparing to introduce water-based urban transport systems in as many as 20 cities nationwide under the ‘Water Metro’ services. The move comes after the success of the Kochi Water Metro.

Moving ahead in this regard, Systra India has been tasked with conducting detailed feasibility studies to determine the operational and economic viability of these initiatives, reported The Economic Times.

Urban Waterways as Sustainable Transit Corridors

The proposed Water Metro systems aim to leverage India’s extensive rivers, canals, and coastal waterways to provide environmentally sustainable urban transport.

By connecting main city centres with peripheral municipalities, islands, and adjoining regions, the projects are designed to complement existing land-based transport while improving overall mobility. Planned routes will also focus on tourism accessibility and regional economic connectivity.

Feasibility Study Objectives

Systra’s studies will assess travel demand, mobility patterns, and socio-economic benefits, while also planning operational and infrastructural frameworks.

This includes mapping optimal routes, designing terminal facilities, and ensuring integration with existing transport systems. Environmental sustainability and commuter convenience are central to the planning process, with electric ferries and modernised terminals expected to minimise energy use and ecological impact.

ALSO READ: Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train progress: Project achieves key milestone with ninth steel bridge in Gujarat

Cities Identified for Implementation

Notably, earlier in February, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), in consultation with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, had identified 17 locations with high potential for Water Metro systems.

These include metropolitan hubs and historically significant cities such as Kolkata, Varanasi, Patna, Guwahati, Mumbai, and Ayodhya, as well as island regions like Lakshadweep and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Several other cities across the country are also being evaluated to complete the 18–20 city plan.