Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has announced a major infrastructure push to boost inland waterways in Bihar. He proposed the introduction of a Water Metro, modelled on the Kochi Water Metro, to connect both banks of the Ganga. A ship repair facility will be established in Patna to support maintenance and construction of new vessels. A Joint Task Force will be formed to explore sustainable development opportunities along the River Ganga. The National Inland Navigation Institute in Patna will be upgraded as a Centre of Excellence. (Waterways)
The city is being developed as a logistics hub for Northern Bihar, with the Kalighat Terminal supporting Nepal-bound trade. The Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) is 68.86% complete as of May 2025. In a significant move to boost inland water transport and connectivity in Bihar, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal recently announced the development of a Water Metro, a shipyard, and 16 new jetties across key river stretches in the state. The announcement, made during a high-level event in Patna, aims to enhance economic activity along the Ganga and its tributaries, especially in eastern India.
Water Metro Project in Bihar
The proposed Water Metro project is inspired by the successful model introduced in Kochi, Kerala. It is set to offer eco-friendly and efficient water-based transportation for daily commuters in major cities such as Patna, Bhagalpur, and Munger. This project will reduce congestion on roads and provide a cost-effective alternative for thousands of people, especially in flood-prone and river-connected regions.
(Water Transport)
New Shipyard Development
Sarbananda SonicWALL also revealed plans for a state-of-the-art shipyard in Bihar, focusing on the construction and repair of small and medium-sized vessels. The proposed facility will not only reduce dependency on other states but also generate direct employment opportunities for local workers and engineers. The shipyard will support the logistics ecosystem created under the Jal Marg Vikas Project.
16 New Jetties Across Key Locations
As part of the broader infrastructure plan, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will set up 16 floating and permanent jetties in locations including Bhagalpur, Buxar, Kahalgaon, and Katihar. These jetties will enable smooth cargo handling, improve passenger services, and connect remote villages to urban centres. The jetties are being designed with sustainability in mind and will support both passenger and freight operations.
IWAI developments in Bhagalpur ➝
Focus on Economic Growth & Connectivity
This initiative aligns with the Modi government’s “Act East Policy” and vision for harnessing the economic potential of rivers. With enhanced waterway connectivity, industries such as agriculture, textiles, and fishery in Bihar are expected to benefit. Local entrepreneurs will gain access to new markets via National Waterway-1, running from Allahabad to Haldia, which passes through Bihar.
Empowering Local Communities
Sonowal emphasized that these projects are not just about transportation, but about empowering local communities and making logistics inclusive. He assured that modern passenger terminals with amenities like solar power, drinking water, and waiting lounges will be developed to ensure user convenience and safety.
Conclusion
The combined development of the Water Metro, shipyard, and 16 jetties marks a new era in Bihar’s transport and economic history. With sustained government backing and public-private collaboration, these efforts are set to transform riverine infrastructure, bring jobs, and offer environment-friendly mobility options in the heart of India’s Gangetic plain.
Q1. What is the Water Metro project in Bihar?
It’s an eco-friendly boat-based public transport system planned across Ganga and other rivers in Bihar.
Q2. How many jetties are being built in Bihar?
A total of 16 jetties will be developed to improve cargo and passenger river transport.
Q3. Where will the shipyard be located?
The exact location is yet to be finalized, but it will be set up within Bihar to boost local manufacturing.
Q4. How will these projects benefit common people?
They’ll offer cheaper transport, boost trade for farmers, and create tourism and job opportunities.
Q5. Which national plan covers these projects?
These projects are part of the PM Gati Shakti Masterplan for integrated infrastructure development.
