Patna: Patna is planning to launch a water metro on the Ganga river, making it the first city in Bihar to have such a service. After the rail metro starts from August 15, the government wants to begin this water metro project to improve transport and tourism in the state.
The water metro will run from Pahleja Ghat in Chhapra to Bidupur in Vaishali, covering about 50 km through six ports. A team from Kochi Metro Rail Limited recently visited Patna to study the possible routes and how the boats can operate safely on the river. The final report is expected by December this year.
Each water metro boat will carry around 100 passengers. The fare is likely to be between Rs 20 and Rs 40. These boats will run on electricity and solar power and need less than one metre of water depth. Officials said this will help reduce traffic on roads and give people a faster, cleaner travel option.
The six ports planned for the route are Pahleja Ghat, Digha Ghat, NIT Ghat, Konhara Ghat, Kangan Ghat, and Bidupur Ghat. The government will also study the water flow during the rainy season to decide what type of engine will be safe and effective. Construction of ports will begin after the final report is received.
