Kochi Model Goes National As Government Drafts Water Metro Policy For 18 Cities

On May 19, 2026, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) confirmed that the Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 has been circulated for inter-ministerial consultations. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal chaired the review meeting, highlighting the project’s eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to urban transport.

Cities Identified For Rollout

• Phase I: Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Guwahati
• Phase II: Tezpur and Dibrugarh in Assam
• Future Expansion: Additional cities with navigable waterways, populations above one million, or high tourism demand will be considered.

Kochi Model As Blueprint

• The Kochi Water Metro, India’s first such system, serves as the foundation for this national rollout. Its success demonstrated:
• Lower capital costs by using existing waterways
• Faster construction timelines compared to metro rail
• Reduced congestion and emissions through electric and hybrid ferries

Policy Framework

The draft policy outlines:

• Standardisation of vessel design, terminals, and charging infrastructure
• Indigenisation of vessel construction to boost domestic industry
• Integration with urban transport networks for seamless travel
• Safety protocols and passenger amenities for reliable service

Benefits Of Water Metro Systems

According to Union Minister Sonowal, water metros are less capital-intensive, require minimal civil infrastructure, and provide eco-friendly alternatives to conventional transport. They will serve both daily commuters and tourists, offering scenic, efficient, and affordable mobility.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 circulated for consultation

•⁠  ⁠18 cities identified, Phase I includes Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Guwahati

•⁠  ⁠Phase II to cover Tezpur and Dibrugarh in Assam

•⁠  ⁠Kochi Water Metro success guiding national rollout

•⁠  ⁠Electric and hybrid ferries to reduce emissions and costs

•⁠  ⁠Standardisation, indigenisation, and multimodal integration central to policy

•⁠  ⁠Aimed at reducing congestion and boosting sustainable urban mobility

Sources: Odisha TV, The Week, CNBC TV18, Zee News, Odisha Diary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways