Reported by Roopak Goswami
Guwahati: The Centre has shortlisted Guwahati for the first phase of the proposed nationwide Water Metro network, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said on Monday, as the government moved ahead with plans to introduce water-based urban transport systems in 18 cities across the country.
Assam’s Tezpur and Dibrugarh have been included in the second phase of the project, while Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj are also among the cities selected for Phase I.
The announcement came after Sonowal chaired a high-level review meeting on the rollout of Water Metro services and confirmed that the Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 has been circulated for inter-ministerial consultations.
Modelled on the successful Kochi Water Metro, the proposed initiative aims to turn navigable waterways into modern, sustainable public transport corridors.
“The proposed Water Metro systems are significantly less capital intensive as they utilise existing waterways with minimal civil infrastructure. With faster construction timelines, lower land requirements and reduced operational costs through electric and hybrid ferries, the system offers a viable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional urban transport,” Sonowal said.
The Minister said the Water Metro projects are expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve connectivity and provide a smoother commuting experience, while also boosting tourism potential in river-based cities.
According to the Ministry, the proposed ecosystem will include ferries, terminals, jetties, charging infrastructure, navigational aids and passenger facilities, with emphasis on electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
Sonowal said cities with continuous or semi-continuous waterways, high commuter demand and populations above one million would be prioritised. However, exceptions may be made for projects that improve access to remote areas or strengthen resilience during floods and disruptions.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) had entrusted Kochi Metro Rail Limited with conducting feasibility studies for 18 cities earlier this year. Draft feasibility reports for Guwahati, Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi and Ayodhya have already been accepted.
The Centre is also exploring multiple funding models for the projects, including Centre-State partnerships, PPP models and fully government-funded initiatives.