After Kochi, India set to launch Water Metro Services in Ayodhya and Varanasi

Ayodhya, India (Urban Transport News): In a groundbreaking development, Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya and Varanasi are poised to embrace the country's first Water Metro services, following the successful model of the Kochi Water Metro. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is gearing up to launch this innovative water-based transportation system, mirroring the success of the Kochi Water Metro inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2023.

Water Metro's Successful Introduction in Kochi

The Kochi Water Metro, inaugurated earlier this year, marked India's first venture into water-based metro services. Operating on the Malabar coast, it connects 10 islands around Kochi city through battery-operated electric hybrid boats, offering an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation.

Expansion to Ayodhya and Varanasi

The IWAI plans to replicate this success in Uttar Pradesh, with Ayodhya and Varanasi identified as the first cities to benefit from the Water Metro service. According to reports from news agency IANS, the Ayodhya-bound vessel is expected to reach its destination around January 14 of the coming year.

"A major highlight is the anticipated inauguration of the Water Metro service in Ayodhya on January 22, coinciding with the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla," shared a senior official from the Ayodhya administration, as reported by IANS.

Boosting Religious Tourism

The Water Metro service, set to operate between Guptar Ghat and Naya Ghat in Ayodhya, is expected to catalyze religious tourism in the city. Two jetties from Kolkata have already reached Ayodhya, signifying the operational progress of this transformative project. The introduction of Water Metro services aligns with the vision to enhance connectivity and accessibility, particularly in significant cultural and religious hubs.

Learnings from Kochi's Success

Reflecting on the success of the Kochi Water Metro, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted its potential to revolutionize water transportation and boost tourism in the state. The Kochi project, funded jointly by the Kerala government and the German firm KfW, serves as an inspiring model for other regions looking to capitalize on water-based transportation solutions. The boats used in the project were manufactured at Cochin Shipyard Limited.

As Ayodhya and Varanasi prepare to embark on their Water Metro journey, the initiative holds promise not only for easing local transportation but also for elevating the profile of these culturally rich cities on the global tourism map.