Kolkata Water Metro Project Advances as 16 Key Locations Identified Along the Hooghly River

Share
Link copied
Article cover image for "Kolkata Water Metro Project Advances as 16 Key Locations Identified Along the Hooghly River"
Sat, Jun 27, 01:50 PM IST • 2 min read

Kolkata's proposed Water Metro project has entered a crucial planning phase, with authorities identifying 16 key locations along the Hooghly River for the future river-based transit network. The initiative aims to enhance urban mobility in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area while leveraging the city's historic riverfront for sustainable transportation.

Among the locations under consideration are Babughat, Prinsep Ghat, Belur Math, Dakshineswar, Howrah Station Jetty, Bagh Bazar, Shobha Bazar and Shalimar Ghat. These sites are expected to play an important role in the development of a modern Water Metro system connecting key destinations across Kolkata and Howrah.

The project has gained momentum following the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for 41 jetty proposals along the Hooghly corridor by Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. These approvals provide a foundation for expanding river-based transport infrastructure in the region.

Officials have stated that the upcoming Detailed Project Report (DPR) will assess several critical aspects of the project, including passenger demand, terminal locations, vessel requirements, route planning and the overall operational framework. The study will help determine the feasibility and scale of the Water Metro network.

In addition to public transport services, authorities are also exploring the development of cruise terminals along the Hooghly River. The proposed facilities could support tourism, recreational boating and riverfront activities, creating new opportunities for economic growth and visitor experiences in Kolkata.

If implemented, the Kolkata Water Metro could emerge as a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, reducing pressure on road networks while providing commuters with an alternative way to travel across the metropolitan region. The project also aligns with broader efforts to improve urban infrastructure and strengthen Kolkata's connection with its iconic river.

With the DPR process set to begin, the Water Metro project represents another significant step towards modernizing Kolkata's transport ecosystem and unlocking the potential of the Hooghly River as a key mobility corridor.