Patna is set to embark on a transformative journey towards sustainable urban mobility with the upcoming launch of its inaugural water metro system. This ambitious project is part of a broader initiative to establish Patna as a central hub under National Waterway-1 (NW-1), spanning 1,390 km from Varanasi to Haldia. The development aims to enhance connectivity, reduce road congestion, and promote eco-friendly transportation solutions.
The water metro project will be supported by the construction of 16 new community jetties and two Ro-Pax terminals, facilitating seamless integration between land and water transport. Additionally, a vessel repair and construction facility will be established in Patna, ensuring the maintenance and growth of the state’s inland fleet. A Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism (QPOM) will be implemented at four strategic locations to streamline ferry operations. Kalughat in Saran district is being developed into an advanced waterway centre, capable of handling both cargo and passenger traffic. This development is expected to bolster regional trade and tourism, particularly with Nepal-bound goods. Furthermore, a multimodal terminal is being considered in Bhagalpur to integrate road, rail, and water-based logistics, enhancing the efficiency of the transportation network.
The introduction of river-based transport is anticipated to alleviate pressure on congested road networks, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a reliable mode of transport for the city’s growing population. By leveraging the Ganga river’s potential, the project aligns with the government’s vision of promoting sustainable and equitable urban growth. To support the burgeoning inland water transport sector, the National Inland Navigation Institute (NINI) in Patna is being modernised as a Centre of Excellence. This facility will focus on skill development, research, and innovation, equipping the workforce with the necessary expertise to manage and operate the new systems effectively.
A joint task force, comprising officials from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Bihar government, has been established to oversee the planning and implementation of future waterway initiatives. This collaborative approach aims to identify new navigable routes across 12 Ganga-adjacent districts, fostering a sustainable transport and trade ecosystem. With the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) nearing 69% completion as of May 2025, and cargo movement through NW-1 having tripled since 2014-15, Patna is poised to emerge as a pivotal centre for river-based logistics and urban mobility.
The water metro initiative not only promises to revolutionise transportation in the region but also underscores the government’s commitment to building zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable cities.
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