Patna is set to begin operations of its Urban Water Metro Project in December, linking boat services with the city’s metro rail network, according to a report. The service will run along the Ganga river and aims to reduce congestion and travel time.
The first trial run of the vessel MV-Gomadharkonwar took place on Sunday to assess performance, safety, docking systems, navigation, and passenger capacity. “One more trial run will be conducted after Durga Puja, and several aspects will be checked, such as operational feasibility in varied water conditions. The trial will continue for two months by the engineers, after which we will hand over the vessel to the state government for its operation by December,” Arvind Kumar, director of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) Patna, said.
Route, operations, and facilities
The vessel will be operated by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation Limited (BSTDC) and will cover a 10.5-km route between Kangan Ghat and Digha Ghat, with two additional stops at Gai Ghat and Gandhi Ghat. The cost of the vessel is around ₹12 crore.
The boat has 50 seats and is equipped with CCTV cameras, LCD screens, and a sound system. Display screens will provide information about upcoming stations, and passengers will have views of the Ganga river.
According to IWAI officials, similar water metro systems currently operate in Kochi and Ayodhya. The national project is estimated at ₹908 crore and includes energy-efficient electric ferries, modernised terminals, and integration with other transport modes.
In Patna, four potential routes and 10 locations have been identified for the project. Officials expect it to alter the city’s transport network while promoting river-based tourism. Patna is among 18 cities selected for development under the Urban Water Transport system.
Nand Kishore, managing director of BSTDC, said that a team of 10 engineers from Cochin Shipyard inspected the vessel and its technical aspects.
“The date of inauguration of the water metro will be announced once they give the green signal and hand over the vessel to the state government,” he added.
He also said the project includes facilities such as jetties, docks, and recreational areas to attract visitors.