Patna: Patna is set to launch its long-awaited water metro service on the Ganga in August, with project authorities saying construction has entered its final stages and around 70% of the work has already been completed.
The electric ferry service will initially operate between Digha Ghat and Kangan Ghat in Patna City, offering an alternative mode of transport along the river while also enhancing tourism in the state capital.
Infrastructure Work Nears Completion
Authorities are completing supporting infrastructure required for the launch of the service.
A charging facility has been established at the Gandhi Ghat jetty, where a dedicated transformer has also been installed to power the electric vessel.
Ticket counters are under construction at Digha Ghat, Gandhi Ghat and Kangan Ghat to facilitate passenger services before operations begin.
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Electric Ferry With Modern Facilities
The water metro will operate using a 42-metre-long electric vessel capable of accommodating 50 seated passengers and an additional 25 standing passengers.
The ferry will feature an air-conditioned passenger cabin equipped with LCD display screens, a public address system, CCTV surveillance, digital passenger information displays and other safety features.
Officials say the vessel’s large glass windows are designed to provide panoramic views of the Ganga, riverfront ghats and the evening Ganga Aarti, making the service attractive for both commuters and tourists.
Battery-Powered Operations
The vessel will be powered by two high-capacity batteries that can be fully charged in approximately 30 minutes at the charging station near Gaighat.
Once fully charged, the ferry is expected to operate continuously for around one and a half hours before requiring another recharge.
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Expansion Planned
The state government plans to expand the water metro network in a second phase.
Future routes are proposed to connect Nasriganj in Danapur, Konhara Ghat, Sonepur, Hariharnath and Panapur.
Officials say the expanded network is intended to improve connectivity between North and South Bihar while providing a faster and more convenient transport option across the Ganga.
If completed as planned, the project will mark the introduction of electric water-based public transport in Patna and add a new component to the city’s evolving transport infrastructure.
