UP Govt plans to introduce Water Metro services in Ayodhya, Varanasi & Prayagraj

Lucknow, India (Urban Transport News): In a forward-looking move to integrate green mobility with heritage tourism, the Uttar Pradesh government is exploring the introduction of Water Metro services in Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj. A detailed feasibility study will soon be commissioned to evaluate the technical and financial viability of launching this modern river-based transit system in the state's most iconic cities.

Inspired by the success of the Kochi Water Metro—India’s first operational water-based urban transit service—the Uttar Pradesh Water Metro aims to ease urban road congestion, reduce air pollution, and enhance tourist mobility across the Ganga, Saryu, and Yamuna riverfronts.

“The idea is to make the Ganga, Saryu, and Yamuna not just spiritual and cultural icons, but also channels of clean, modern transport,” a senior government official said.

Feasibility Study Underway

According to sources, the proposed Water Metro could operate as both an intra-city and inter-city service, depending on the outcome of the study. It will assess potential routes, demand forecasts, docking infrastructure, boat specifications, environmental clearances, and cost-benefit analysis.

The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL), which successfully launched the Kochi Water Metro in Kerala, is likely to serve as the technical consultant for the Uttar Pradesh project. The state’s Chief Secretary SP Goyal is scheduled to meet with KMRL officials later this week to explore implementation strategies.

What is a Water Metro?

A Water Metro is a battery-powered, electric-hybrid public transport system that uses boats to connect important locations along inland waterways. Designed for both daily commuters and tourists, Water Metro services offer:

• Zero tailpipe emissions

• Quiet, scenic and efficient travel

• Last-mile connectivity from boat terminals to urban centers

• Lower operational and maintenance costs compared to conventional land transport systems

“With the Water Metro model, we are looking at a transformative step in smart and sustainable urban mobility—especially for cities rich in culture, pilgrimage, and natural waterways,” said Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group. “The integration of spiritual tourism and green transport is a brilliant strategy that blends tradition with technology.”

Learning from Kochi's Model

Launched in December 2021, the Kochi Water Metro operates a fleet of 23 electric boats, including India’s first fully battery-operated vessel ‘Muziris’, built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. The project is internationally recognized as a flagship model of low-carbon, water-based urban mobility.

KMRL’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding Uttar Pradesh’s plan for similar services across:

• The Ganga in Varanasi

• The Saryu in Ayodhya

• The Sangam (Yamuna-Ganga confluence) in Prayagraj

A Step Towards Smart Cities and Viksit Bharat 2047

The initiative aligns with the Uttar Pradesh government’s broader vision to:

• Promote sustainable tourism along river corridors

• Modernize urban transport with eco-friendly alternatives

• Support India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goals for clean, efficient, and inclusive infrastructure

If deemed feasible, the Water Metro will not only strengthen interconnectivity among the three holy cities but also improve accessibility to major ghats, religious sites, and heritage landmarks—without adding pressure on road networks.

With the Water Metro concept gaining traction nationwide, Uttar Pradesh’s plan to bring this model to the Ganga, Saryu, and Yamuna rivers could redefine transport and tourism in the state. By fusing innovation with tradition, the proposed UP Water Metro stands poised to become a flagship of green mobility, reinforcing the sacred rivers as arteries of progress, connectivity, and cultural pride.