Metro will run on water! Modi government made a big plan for 18 cities of the country, these cities are included

National Water Metro Policy 2026: The central government is preparing water transport based water metro in 18 major cities across the country. This came to light in a high-level review meeting on the proposed expansion of this scheme by Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The meeting was presided over by the Union Minister.

According to him, the central government has made progress on plans to launch water metro services in 18 cities across the country. Guwahati has been given prominence in the first phase of this ambitious national project. It aims to transform inland waterways into sustainable urban transport corridors.

City identified for first phase

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday said the ministry has also circulated the draft of the National Water Metro Policy, 2026 for inter-ministerial consultations. This reflects the government’s intention to establish a formal national framework for water-based urban transport systems.

Apart from Guwahati, cities like Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj have been identified for the project for the first phase, while Tezpur and Dibrugarh in Assam have been proposed for the second phase.

Capital consumption will reduce

Chairing a high-level review meeting, Sonowal said the initiative is based on the experience and success of Kochi Water Metro. It attempts to provide an efficient, environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional urban transportation systems. He said the proposed water metro systems use existing waterways and require minimal civil infrastructure, hence the cost is also quite low.

Similarly, construction time, land requirement and operating cost are also less. Especially through electric and hybrid boats. This system provides a viable and environment-friendly transportation solution.

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Easy and comfortable journey

The minister said that this project will reduce road congestion in densely populated cities. Besides, passengers will also get a smoother and more comfortable travel experience. Metro projects are being planned as integrated public transport systems catering to the needs of both daily commuters and tourists.

The ministry proposes to standardize ferry designs, terminals, charging infrastructure and safety protocols while encouraging indigenous ferry manufacturing and seamless multi-mode connectivity. Sonowal stressed that states will also be consulted on the draft National Water Metro Policy for wider participation and inclusion of regional needs.