KMRL to study urban water transport in 17 cities, focusing on seamless multimodal connectivity.

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, informed the Lok Sabha that a feasibility study for the Urban Water Transport System is being conducted in 17 selected cities across India. Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has been tasked with carrying out this study to explore the potential for implementing an integrated water transport network.

The selection of cities is based on specific parameters, including a minimum population of 1 million, proximity to navigable inland waterways, and the presence of substantial ferry services. The proposed Urban Water Transport System aims to seamlessly integrate with existing metro, bus, and railway networks, ensuring comprehensive multimodal connectivity.

Among the 17 locations, Guwahati and Dhubri in Assam have been identified from the north-eastern states, while Mangalore (along the Gurupura River) is also included. However, there is currently no specific proposal for cities in Chhattisgarh.

The implementation of the Urban Water Transport System will depend on the findings and recommendations of the feasibility study. As of now, there are no plans to expand the study to additional cities.

This development is part of the government’s vision to enhance sustainable and efficient urban transport systems across the country, leveraging India’s rich network of inland waterways to reduce congestion and improve connectivity.

Source: PIB Delhi