Patna: Patna is set to join the list of Indian cities with modern water-based public transport after a successful trial run of the water metro on the Ganges.
On Monday, an electric vessel named MV Gomdhar Kunwar, brought from Kolkata, completed its trial journey between Gaighat and NIT Ghat. Officials from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, and technical experts were on board during the test.
IWAI Director Arvind Kumar said the trial had gone smoothly and services would begin soon, initially connecting Digha to Kangan Ghat. A floating jetty is being prepared for the launch.
The glass-enclosed, air-conditioned vessel can seat 50 passengers and accommodate 25 standing. Officials said fares will be finalised before the launch. Another electric vessel is also planned to be procured from Kolkata to strengthen the fleet.
The initiative is being pitched as both a commuter service and a tourism attraction, offering a scenic ride on the Ganges similar to services in Singapore, Mumbai, and Goa. “It will be a pleasant experience for locals and visitors alike,” said Nandkishore, Managing Director of the Tourism Development Corporation.
The project follows an agreement between the Bihar government and IWAI on operating the water metro. With Patna Metro rail trials already completed, the capital is poised to become the first city in the state to offer both metro and water metro services.
The central government has also approved metro projects in Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, and Darbhanga, signalling a broader push to modernise Bihar’s urban transport infrastructure.
