Could Samrat Choudhary's Vision for Patna Water Metro Transform River Transport and Tourism?
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Synopsis
Bihar's Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary pushes for the Patna Water Metro project, aiming to revolutionize water transport and river tourism, drawing inspiration from Kerala's success. Can this vision reshape Bihar’s connectivity and tourism landscape?
Key Takeaways
- Patna Water Metro project aims to enhance water transport.
- Could boost river tourism significantly.
- Proposals include construction of jetties and terminals.
- Eco-friendly transport solution.
- Inspired by Kochi Water Metro.
Patna, June 16 (NationPress) Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has called upon the Centre to endorse the proposed Patna Water Metro project, framing it as a pivotal move to enhance water transport and invigorate river tourism within the state.
Speaking at a workshop hosted by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in Patna on Monday, Choudhary asserted that the water metro could serve as a hallmark initiative for Bihar, akin to the Kochi Water Metro -- the first in India and the largest integrated water transport system in Asia.
“I am optimistic that just as Prime Minister Narendra Modi greenlit the Patna Metro at Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s behest, he will also extend his support for this ambitious water metro project,” he stated.
Detailing his vision for bolstering inland waterway infrastructure in Bihar, Choudhary presented several proposals to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
These proposals included the construction of two jetties in each of the 11 riverine districts of Bihar; accelerating the development of the multimodal terminal at Bhagalpur; establishing a maintenance center for ships and cruises in Patna, with land already designated by the state government; creating an intermodal terminal at Kalughat in Saran district; installing 21 community jetties and a Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism (QPOM) at Ara; and the establishment of ship repair facilities in Patna.
Choudhary also highlighted the urgency of expediting significant projects under the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), which seeks to enhance navigability and cargo transport on National Waterway-1.
Pointing to the success of Ro-Pax passenger vessels already in operation by the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, he remarked that river transport presents an eco-friendly and economically feasible approach to enhancing connectivity in Bihar.
Reflecting on Bihar’s improved flood management, Choudhary credited both the state and central governments for fortifying irrigation and control systems. “Thanks to these initiatives, Bihar can now handle inflows of up to 6 lakh cusecs from Nepal with minimal damage. Currently, only around 100 villages experience flooding,” he claimed.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the potential of the Patna Water Metro project in enhancing Bihar's transportation network and tourism sector. Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary's proposals could lead to significant economic growth, and it's crucial for the central government to carefully consider this initiative for the benefit of the state's development.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Patna Water Metro project?
The Patna Water Metro project is a proposed water transport initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting river tourism in Bihar.
Who is advocating for the Patna Water Metro project?
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is urging the Centre to approve the project.
How does the Patna Water Metro compare to other projects?
It is designed to be a landmark initiative for Bihar, similar to Kerala's Kochi Water Metro, which is India's first and Asia's largest integrated water transport system.
What additional infrastructure is being proposed?
Proposals include the construction of jetties in riverine districts, development of terminals, and ship maintenance facilities.
What are the expected benefits of the project?
The project aims to improve water transport, enhance tourism, and create eco-friendly transportation solutions.
