The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has now announced plans for the Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP), the officials have revealed.
This bold initiative seeks to revolutionise public transportation in the state by leveraging National Waterways to link regions along the Nethravathi (NW-74) and Gurupura (NW-43) rivers. According to officials, the project is poised to become India’s second-largest water transport system, following Kochi, offering an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and efficient travel option.
Mangaluru Water Metro: Routes, metro stations
This project aims to connect isolated communities from Bajal to Maravoor, improving accessibility and fostering the overall development of these areas. It is anticipated that the initiative will enhance local livelihoods and elevate the standard of living by establishing integrated transport networks.
It will be rolled out in phases and the initial stretch will cover 30 kilometres along the Nethravathi and Gurupura river backwaters. The primary route will start at Bajal on the Nethravathi and extend to the Maravoor Bridge on the Gurupura, incorporating approximately 17 modern Metro stations.
The proposed route includes important locations such as Someshwara Temple, Ullal, and the New Mangalore Port. State-of-the-art electric and diesel catamaran boats will be utilised, featuring essential amenities to guarantee a high level of comfort and operational efficiency.
A comprehensive Feasibility Report (FR) will evaluate the project’s viability by providing a detailed cost-benefit analysis, assessing market potential, outlining operational strategies, and considering environmental impacts.
“The report will objectively evaluate the project’s merits and challenges, providing crucial information for decision-makers, stakeholders and investors,” they said.
(With PTI inputs)