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Key Points

Bihar's Tourism Department has partnered with the Inland Waterways Authority to launch a revolutionary water metro service in Patna. The project will feature state-of-the-art hybrid electric catamarans that produce zero emissions while carrying up to 100 passengers. This Rs 908 crore initiative will connect Digha Ghat to Kangan Ghat through multiple stops, reducing travel time and pollution. The water metro is expected to transform urban transportation while significantly boosting tourism in the region.

Key Points: Bihar Tourism and IWAI Launch Patna Water Metro Service

  • MoU signed for Rs 908 crore Urban Water Metro project in Patna
  • Hybrid electric catamarans like MV Nishadraj ensure zero carbon emissions
  • Service to operate from Digha Ghat to Kangan Ghat via multiple stops
  • Project aims to reduce pollution and travel time while boosting tourism
  • Vessels can carry 100 passengers including wheelchair accessibility
  • Trial runs scheduled soon with 10 more locations planned
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Bihar Tourism Department, Inland Waterways Authority sign MoU to begin water metro service in Patna

Bihar Tourism and IWAI sign Rs 908 crore MoU for eco-friendly Water Metro in Patna using hybrid electric vessels to transform urban transport and boost tourism.

"This is a major achievement in urban transportation, offering a new smart, safe, and sustainable travel experience - Bihar Tourism Department"

Bhavnagar, September 20

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, between the Bihar Tourism Department and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) on Friday to begin the Water Metro service in Patna.

The initiative aims to develop and promote a tourism-friendly urban water transportation system in Patna, providing citizens with safe, environmentally friendly, and modern transportation options, Bihar Tourism Department said in a press release.

Under this project, state-of-the-art hybrid electric catamaran vessels like the 'MV Nishadraj' will be operated, capable of running on both battery and hybrid modes. These vessels will not only ensure zero carbon emissions but also have a capacity to carry about 100 passengers, including 2 wheelchair users. The vessels will offer fully air-conditioned and comfortable amenities for the passengers.

In a grand ceremony held in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, in the presence of Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Mansukh Mandaviya, the MoU for the development of the Urban Water Metro project with an investment of Rs 908 crores was signed by IWAI Chairman Sunil Kumar Singh and Nand Kishore, Managing Director of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, on behalf of the Tourism Department.

Tourism Minister Raju Kumar Singh stated that this project will help promote tourism in Patna.

This is a major achievement in the urban transportation sector, offering a new smart, safe, and sustainable travel experience for both citizens and tourists through the waterways, the release said

Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh mentioned that under the Urban Water Metro Project, the Water Metro service will operate from Digha Ghat to Kangan Ghat in Patna. In between, the Water Metro will travel from Digha Tourism Ghat via NIT Ghat and Gay Ghat to Kangan Ghat.

A trial run for this is scheduled to take place soon in Patna. In the future, ten more locations are expected to be identified, bringing a revolutionary change to the city's water tourism system, which will reduce pollution and travel time. This initiative will also provide new directions for tourism and local development, a release said. Patna is one of the 18 selected cities in the country where an efficient and modern urban water transportation system is being developed.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As a Patna resident, I'm excited but hope the fares will be affordable for common people. We need public transport that's accessible to all, not just tourists.
A
Aman W
Great initiative! The wheelchair accessibility is particularly commendable. More Indian cities should adopt such inclusive infrastructure projects 👍
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Sarah B
Wonderful to see sustainable transport solutions being implemented! The hybrid electric technology is forward-thinking. Hope this reduces traffic congestion in Patna.
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Vikram M
₹908 crores is a huge investment. Hope the project maintains quality and doesn't get delayed like many infrastructure projects in Bihar. Proper maintenance will be key!
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Nisha Z
This will be amazing for tourism! Imagine enjoying Ganga views while commuting. Can't wait to take my family on this ride once it starts 🚢
M
Michael C
Impressive project! The connectivity from Digha to Kangan Ghat will benefit many students and professionals. Hope the frequency of services is good enough for daily use.

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