Lucknow Plans Gomti Water Metro Network

Lucknow has taken a significant step towards diversifying its urban transport mix, with the completion of a feasibility assessment for a proposed Water Metro system on the Gomti River. The study clears the way for detailed planning and signals a growing interest among state authorities in using inland waterways to ease congestion, improve mobility, and reimagine the role of urban rivers in fast-growing cities. 

The feasibility exercise, carried out with technical inputs from an experienced metro rail operator, assessed whether a river-based passenger transport system could function reliably within Lucknow’s geographic, social and economic context. According to officials familiar with the review, the findings indicate that sections of the Gomti can support regulated water transport, provided navigation infrastructure, terminals and environmental safeguards are planned in parallel.

Urban planners say the move reflects a broader shift in Indian cities towards multimodal transport systems that go beyond roads and rail. Lucknow’s population growth and expanding metropolitan footprint have placed sustained pressure on surface transport, with peak-hour congestion becoming a persistent challenge. A Water Metro on the Gomti could offer an alternative for short to medium-distance travel, particularly along dense riverfront corridors that are otherwise difficult to serve efficiently by road.

The next phase will focus on preparing a detailed project report, a critical document that will determine the technical design, cost structure and implementation model. Officials say this stage will include river navigation aids, traffic and ridership studies, environmental and social impact assessments, and the planning of jetties, terminals and last-mile connectivity. Integration with existing road networks and ticketing systems will also be examined to ensure the service functions as part of a wider urban mobility ecosystem rather than a standalone attraction.

Environmental considerations are expected to play a central role in the planning process. Experts caution that river-based transport must be carefully designed to avoid disturbing aquatic ecosystems or worsening pollution levels. At the same time, electric or low-emission vessels could help position the Gomti Water Metro as a lower-carbon mobility option, aligning with climate-resilient urban development goals and ongoing riverfront rejuvenation efforts.

Beyond daily commuting, the project is also being viewed through an economic and place-making lens. A functioning Water Metro could support tourism, create new waterfront activity zones and generate employment linked to operations, maintenance and allied services. Real estate analysts note that well-managed water transport systems often improve the attractiveness of adjoining neighbourhoods, provided development is balanced and environmentally responsible.

State transport officials have indicated that similar water-based mobility concepts are being explored in other parts of Uttar Pradesh, suggesting a longer-term strategy to leverage rivers, lakes and reservoirs for transport where feasible. However, industry experts emphasise that execution will be key, particularly around fare affordability, service reliability and integration with existing public transport. As Lucknow moves towards the DPR and bidding stage, the coming months will determine whether the Gomti Water Metro can transition from concept to credible urban infrastructure. If implemented with strong environmental safeguards and people-first planning, the project could reshape how the city engages with its river while offering a new chapter in sustainable urban mobility.

Lucknow plans Gomti Water Metro network