India is taking a fresh look at its rivers and lakes, not as scenic landmarks but as solutions to urban congestion. The Centre has begun work on ambitious plans to introduce water metro systems in Srinagar, Kolkata and Guwahati, marking a significant expansion of water-based public transport beyond Kerala.
Detailed Project Reports are currently being prepared to assess feasibility, passenger demand, route planning, infrastructure requirements and financial sustainability. The initiative signals a broader shift towards integrating waterways into everyday commuting patterns while reducing dependence on overburdened road networks.
If successful, the project could reshape urban mobility in three geographically distinct cities that have historically maintained deep connections with water.
Srinagar's waterways could return to everyday life
According to News 18, among the proposed cities, Srinagar presents perhaps the most natural fit for a water metro network. The city has long been defined by the River Jhelum and Dal Lake, which historically served as important transport routes before roads became dominant.
Authorities have identified multiple locations along the Jhelum, including Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Maharaj Gunj, Chhatabal, Sumbal, Hajin and Wular Lake. Simultaneously, Dal Lake routes could connect major destinations such as Nehru Park, Char Chinar, Nishat Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Naseem Bagh and Hazratbal Shrine.
The proposed network could benefit both residents and tourists while helping decongest Srinagar's increasingly crowded roads.
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Kolkata and Guwahati set to strengthen river connectivity
According to News 18, Kolkata already possesses a strong ferry tradition along the Hooghly River, but officials now want to create a more organised water metro ecosystem.
Sixteen locations are under consideration, including Babughat, Princep Ghat, Belur Math, Dakshineswar, Howrah Station Jetty, Bagbazar, Shovabazar and Shalimar Ghat.
Meanwhile, Guwahati's proposal seeks to unlock the potential of the Brahmaputra River. Proposed stations include Gateway of Guwahati, Uzaan Bazar, Pandu Port, North Guwahati, IIT Guwahati, Sualkuchi and Palashbari.
One particularly notable aspect is the possibility of establishing water-based connectivity between Guwahati city and the airport.
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Kochi's success offers a blueprint for the future
According to News 18, the project reflects the government's growing confidence in inland waterways as practical transport solutions rather than purely tourism-driven ventures.
Kochi's Water Metro has demonstrated that water-based urban transit can effectively complement existing transport infrastructure while lowering emissions and reducing traffic congestion.
Alongside the commuter services, the Centre is also exploring cruise terminals in Srinagar, Kolkata and Guwahati to boost tourism and leisure activities.
The upcoming studies will ultimately determine whether these plans become a reality. But for now, India's rivers and lakes are slowly being repositioned at the centre of future urban transport planning.
