Water metro project to span 50 km on Ganga from Chhapra to Vaishali, study underway.
Patna, June 25, 2025: The much-anticipated Water Metro project on the Ganga River in Bihar is gaining momentum, with a proposed stretch of nearly 50 km from Pahelaja Ghat in Chhapra to Bidurpur in Vaishali, covering six ports along the route.
According to Arvind Kumar, Director of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Patna, a three-member team from Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) recently visited Patna to explore potential sites and operational feasibility.
Experts of the water metro project will inspect in July 2025:
A second team of technical experts are expected in July to conduct an in-depth study during the monsoon season.
The visiting team from Kochi will assess seasonal water level fluctuations, water current dynamics, suitable engines and capacity for water metro vessels across varying depths.
“The study will help determine what engine capacity is optimal during low and high water levels to ensure smooth and safe navigation,” Kumar said.
The director also emphasized that the Ganga requires less than one meter of water depth for the operation of specially designed vessels.
The planned electric watercraft, expected to be solar-powered, will have a seating capacity for 50 passengers and space for 50 more standing.
The estimated fare is between Rs. 20 and Rs.40.
Proposed water metro route and ports:
In the first phase, six Ghats will be developed as ports such as Pahelaja Ghat, Digha Ghat, Konhara Ghat, Harihar Nath Temple Ghat, Kangan Ghat and Bidurpur Ghat.
Additionally, existing infrastructure like the jetty at NIT Ghats will be upgraded, and Gaighat is also under consideration for port development.
Segment-wise distance of water metro:
The water metro will cover Pahelaja Ghat to Digha Ghat is 10.62 km. Digha Ghat to NIT Ghats—6.63 km, NIT Ghat to Konhara Ghat (Harihar Nath Temple)—8.32 km, NIT Ghat to Kangan Ghat—7.00 km and Kangan Ghat to Bidurpur Ghat—10.7 km.
The water metro is expected to ease traffic congestion offer an eco-friendly mode of urban transport, and provide a boost to regional connectivity along the Ganga.
Also read: Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary bats for Patna water metro, and seeks the centre’s support.
EOM.