The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has announced the Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP), aiming to transform public transit by utilising National Waterways to connect areas along the Nethravathi (NW-74) and Gurupura (NW-43) rivers. Expected to be India’s second-largest water transport system after Kochi, this eco-friendly project will offer a cost-effective, efficient way to travel.

The Mangaluru Water Metro will enhance accessibility for communities between Bajal and Maravoor, promoting regional development and improving local livelihoods. The initial phase will cover a 30-kilometer stretch along the Nethravathi and Gurupura backwaters, featuring around 17 modern metro stations on a primary route starting at Bajal and extending to the Maravoor Bridge.

Key stations will include prominent locations like Someshwara Temple, Ullal, and New Mangalore Port. The service will deploy electric and diesel catamaran boats equipped with comfortable amenities to ensure a smooth travel experience.

A Feasibility Report (FR) will assess the project’s viability, examining the cost-benefit, market demand, operational strategies, and environmental impact, offering vital insights for decision-makers and investors. (ET)