Tezpur and Dibrugarh have been included in Phase II as the Centre moves ahead with plans for water-based urban transport in 18 cities
Guwahati: The Centre has identified Guwahati for the first phase of India’s proposed nationwide Water Metro network, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal announced on Monday after reviewing the project’s progress.
Modelled on the Kochi Water Metro, the initiative aims to transform navigable waterways into modern urban transport corridors using electric and hybrid ferries. Along with Guwahati, cities including Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj have been shortlisted for Phase I, while Assam’s Tezpur and Dibrugarh will be considered in the second phase.
Sonowal said the Ministry has already circulated the Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 for inter-ministerial consultations. He added that the proposed systems would provide an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to conventional urban transport.
“The projects require lower capital investment as they use existing waterways with minimal infrastructure while offering faster construction timelines and reduced operational costs,” the Minister said.
The proposed network will include ferries, terminals, jetties, charging stations, navigational aids and passenger facilities. Officials said the projects are expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve last-mile connectivity and support tourism in river-based cities.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India had earlier assigned Kochi Metro Rail Limited to conduct feasibility studies for 18 cities. Draft reports for Guwahati and four other cities have already been approved.
Also Read: Congress Leader Randeep Surjewala Summoned in Riniki Bhuyan Sarma Passport Row
