Surat May Soon Sail Ahead with Water Metro

Surat | Gujarat — After the successful implementation of India’s first Water Metro in Kochi, the diamond city of Surat is now preparing to embark on a similar journey. In a major push towards sustainable and innovative urban transport, the Union Shipping Ministry has initiated a feasibility study for launching a Water Metro system in Surat, modeled on the Kochi Water Metro.

This visionary step aims to harness the potential of the Tapi River for eco-friendly and efficient public transport, offering a cleaner and faster alternative to road-based commuting. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has tasked Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) with conducting the study, marking a significant development in Surat’s urban transport strategy.

Public Transport via River – A First for Gujarat

The Water Metro concept, already a success in Kerala, functions as a ferry-based mass transit system that operates on rivers or backwaters. In Kochi, it has not only cut down traffic congestion but also promoted zero-carbon transport, garnering praise both nationally and internationally.

“We believe Surat, with its vibrant economy and urban expansion, is an ideal candidate for a Water Metro. The Tapi River can become a green lifeline for the city,” said an IWAI official overseeing the project.

Study Areas Finalised: From Dumas to Katargam

As part of the feasibility assessment, the KMRL team will visit key sites along the Tapi River including Dumas-Magdalla, Adajan, and Katargam. According to Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agarwal, the initial feasibility study will cover the stretch from Dumas to upstream Katargam Causeway.

“The waterway transport system will serve as a game-changer for Surat. Not only will it offer faster inter-city connectivity, but it will also enhance tourism and the city’s visual appeal,” Agarwal stated. She confirmed that work orders have already been issued to Kochi Metro Rail and that the entire study cost will be borne by the IWAI. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) is also in the pipeline.

A Vision for Eco-Friendly Urban Mobility

Once implemented, Surat’s Water Metro will serve multiple objectives:

Reduce city road traffic congestion

Promote tourism through scenic waterway routes

Enable carbon-neutral transport options

Maximise the use of the Tapi River for public benefit

Urban planning experts believe this initiative could elevate Surat’s profile as a model smart city. “This is more than just a transport project—it’s a vision for future-ready, sustainable cities,” said Anil Mehta, a transportation planner from Ahmedabad.

Inspired by Kochi’s Success

Kochi’s Water Metro, launched in 2023, now connects multiple islands and city sectors across the Vembanad Lake, integrating seamlessly with land metro services. Its success has sparked nationwide interest, and Surat is likely to become Gujarat’s first city to replicate this model.

The IWAI will soon receive KMRL’s final feasibility report, which will decide the project’s direction. If successful, Surat’s Water Metro may well become a benchmark for river-based urban mobility across India.