Patna to Soon Get Water Metro Services: Union Minister for Ports Announces Modern River Transport
Patna, Bihar – June 2025: In a landmark move to modernize urban transport and utilize India’s inland waterways, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways has announced that Patna will soon get its own water metro services, modeled after the successful Kochi Water Metro in Kerala. The announcement came during a press briefing held in New Delhi, sparking excitement across Bihar for a long-awaited development in eco-friendly, river-based public transport.
A Bold Step Toward Modern Urban Mobility
The new Patna Water Metro project will be launched along the Ganga River, which flows through the heart of the city and is already part of National Waterway-1. The minister emphasized that the project will be a joint effort between the central government and the Bihar state government, focusing on sustainable transportation and decongestion of existing road networks in Patna.
“Patna is strategically positioned along the Ganga, and it’s time we leverage that for better public connectivity. The water metro system will not only be a sustainable option but also open up new avenues for river tourism, job creation, and regional development,” said the Union Minister for Ports.
What is a Water Metro?
A water metro is an innovative public water transport system using electric or hybrid ferries that operate much like buses or metro trains but on rivers or backwaters. It is especially effective in cities with major rivers or canals, offering an environmentally friendly and congestion-free commuting experience. Passengers can hop on and off at multiple terminals located across the riverbank, with options for integrated ticketing, real-time tracking, and safety features.
Kochi, Kerala, became India’s first city to launch a water metro in 2023, and it has since received global praise for its innovation and efficiency.
Planned Routes and Initial Scope
Though detailed route maps are under review, initial reports suggest the service will cover major stretches of the Ganga River within the Patna city limits. Likely routes include:
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Digha to Kankarbagh
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Gulzarbagh to Gandhi Maidan
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Patna Sahib to PMCH
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Danapur to Ganga Ghat
These routes have been selected based on passenger volume, proximity to major landmarks and transport hubs, and existing riverbank access. The system will eventually include smart terminals, covered waiting areas, last-mile shuttle connectivity, and digital ticketing through mobile apps and smart cards.
Infrastructure and Funding
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is expected to spearhead the technical aspects of the project. Early estimates suggest an investment of over ₹600 crore will be required for:
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Terminal construction
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Dredging for navigation
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Purchase of electric ferries
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Setting up safety and communication systems
Funding will be sourced from a mix of central schemes under the Maritime India Vision 2030, public-private partnerships, and assistance from the World Bank and other development agencies.
Environmental and Social Benefits
One of the core aims of the Patna Water Metro is to reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. Patna ranks among the most densely populated cities in Eastern India, with increasing pressure on roads, flyovers, and public buses. Introducing water-based transit will:
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Reduce traffic on Mahatma Gandhi Setu and Ashok Rajpath
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Offer faster, low-cost commuting during peak hours
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Cut down vehicular pollution by promoting electric ferries
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Revive the cultural and economic use of the Ganga River
Additionally, riverfront beautification projects will run parallel to water metro development, promoting urban renewal and tourism growth.
Employment and Economic Opportunities
The project is expected to generate direct and indirect employment for local workers, including:
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Terminal staff and ferry operators
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Maintenance technicians
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Ticketing and security personnel
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Small businesses around terminals (cafes, vendors, guides)
Moreover, tourism-based businesses such as Ganga boat rides, heritage tours, and cultural cruises will receive a major boost, particularly near Patna Sahib and Gandhi Maidan.
Public Reaction and Expert Opinion
Residents and transport experts have largely welcomed the announcement. Patna’s citizens, especially daily commuters, are optimistic about the new system.
“If implemented well, the water metro can be a game-changer for Patna. We’ve waited for years for something like this to ease the load on the city’s roads,” said Ritesh Kumar, a civil engineer based in Kankarbagh.
Urban planners note that for the water metro to succeed, last-mile connectivity and pricing models must be carefully designed to make it practical for daily commuters, not just tourists.
Timeline and What’s Next
Feasibility studies and detailed project reports (DPRs) are expected to be completed by late 2025. Construction is likely to begin by early 2026, with the first phase operational by 2027. The project will be implemented in phases, allowing for expansion based on commuter response and operational success.
Conclusion
With the announcement of the water metro in Patna, Bihar is stepping into a future where smart cities include rivers as functional transport corridors, not just geographical features. The initiative is not just a transport project—it's a vision to reconnect the city with its river, improve urban quality of life, and create a model for other river-based cities in India.
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