Paddling Past Pollution: Patna Charts Green Course with Water Metro

Patna is all geared up to make a major leap towards urban mobility with the imminent launch of the Water Metro service on the Ganga River, which will ensure smoother travels and cleaner travel.

 

Supported by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the project lies under the Centre's Ganga Mobility Plan and mirrors the Kochi Water Metro model successfully. The Patna Water Metro will operate electric or hybrid boats to transport passengers across the river and connect the two sides of the river, decongesting the road infrastructure.

 

Principal features of the project are:

Besides facilitating easier daily commutes, the project is expected to drive eco-tourism, create local jobs, and enhance last-mile connectivity. The Water Metro would also be a cleaner, quieter alternative to traditional transport, doing its part in reducing air and noise pollution in the city.

 

The project is to be launched shortly, with work on infrastructure development already underway. Once operational, Patna will be one of Indian cities that have taken up river-borne public transport as a flagship of smart city planning.

 

Sources: India Today, Curly Tales, News18