Patna is set to become a key hub in India’s inland waterways network, with significant infrastructure developments aimed at enhancing connectivity, promoting sustainable transport, and boosting economic growth. The central government’s initiatives focus on leveraging the Ganga river’s potential to transform urban mobility and logistics in Bihar.
A cornerstone of this transformation is the Kalughat Intermodal Terminal in Saran district, inaugurated with an investment of ₹82.48 crore. Strategically located with direct access to NH-19, the terminal is designed to handle container traffic, facilitating smoother transportation of goods, especially for Nepal-bound shipments via Raxaul. This development aims to reduce road congestion and provide an alternative route for cargo movement in North Bihar. Additionally, 14 community jetties are being developed along National Waterway-1 (NW-1) in Bihar, with an investment of ₹17.50 crore. These jetties will provide local farmers, traders, and small businesses with direct access to river-based markets, promoting regional trade and economic growth.
In a bid to modernize urban transport, Patna is considering the introduction of a Water Metro system, inspired by the successful Kochi Water Metro model. This proposed system aims to connect both banks of the Ganga river, offering a clean, efficient, and modern urban mobility solution for the capital city. The project seeks to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce pollution by providing an alternative mode of transport. To support the growing inland vessel ecosystem, a Ship Repair Facility will be established in Patna. This facility will not only cater to the maintenance of existing vessels but also be equipped to construct new ships, fostering the development of the inland waterways sector.
Furthermore, the National Inland Navigation Institute (NINI) in Patna is being upgraded as a Centre of Excellence (CoE). With fresh investments for upgrading facilities and adding new ones, NINI aims to become a premier institution in the field of inland water navigation, providing training and research to support the sector’s growth. To boost passenger movement on NW-1, the government is implementing several initiatives. The deployment of Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanisms (QPOMs) at four locations and two Ro-Pax terminals will ensure smooth and efficient ferry services. Additionally, two hybrid electric catamaran vessels are being introduced to provide an eco-friendly and affordable mode of transport for passengers.
These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and green transportation solutions, aligning with the broader vision of a cleaner and more connected Bihar. The Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), approved in January 2018, aims to develop National Waterway-1 (Haldia to Varanasi) over a 1,390 km stretch with assured depth and width for smooth navigation. As of May 2025, the project is 68.86% physically complete, with traffic increasing by 220% from 5.05 million metric tonnes (MMT) in 2014–15 to 16.38 MMT in 2024–25. Key components of JMVP include the development of cargo terminals, fairway maintenance, navigational locks, community jetties, and facilities like ship repair hubs and cruise terminals.
Since 2014, India’s inland waterways sector has witnessed remarkable growth. The number of operational National Waterways has increased from three to 29 across 11 states. Cargo movement on national waterways reached 145.84 million tonnes in FY 2024–25, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.89% since 2014. The government’s commitment is further underscored by a 48% increase in the annual budget for the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), rising from ₹1,203 crore in FY24 to ₹1,752 crore in FY25. Patna’s transformation into a hub for inland waterways reflects a strategic move towards sustainable urban development. With investments in infrastructure, eco-friendly transport solutions, and capacity building, Bihar is poised to harness the full potential of its river systems, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for its residents.
Also Read :Inland Waterways Plan to Revive Kashmir Travel
