The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has commissioned a feasibility study to develop an Urban Water Transport System in 17 cities across 12 states. Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has been appointed to conduct the study, exploring the potential for water metro projects either fully or partially in these cities.

The cities identified include Ayodhya, Dhubri, Goa, Guwahati, Kollam, Kolkata, Prayagraj, Patna, Srinagar, Varanasi, Mumbai, Vasai, Mangalore (Gurupura River), Gandhinagar-Ahmedabad (Sabarmati River), Alleppey, and the Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, where inter-island ferry services could significantly improve connectivity. 

This initiative aims to create a sustainable and efficient urban transport network by utilising India’s extensive waterways. It envisions integrating water transport with other modes of transit while boosting tourism and regional economic growth. The system will feature non-polluting electric ferries, modernised terminals, and seamless multimodal connectivity. 

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI has been expanding its reach nationwide. It has already taken green initiatives like deploying electric catamarans in Varanasi and Ayodhya, with more planned for Mathura and Guwahati. A hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessel has also successfully completed trials, highlighting the Authority’s commitment to sustainable transport development. 

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