Mangaluru Water Metro Project Moves Forward as 11 Stations Are Finalised
First phase aims to connect key port, coastal and riverside locations through a dedicated water transport network
Mangaluru: The proposed Mangaluru Water Metro project has moved a step closer to implementation, with 11 stations finalised as part of the planned water based public transport network.
The Mangaluru Port and Fisheries Sub Division has identified the locations after conducting a series of surveys and assessments. The initial report on the project has also been submitted to the state government.
The project was taken up after the state cabinet directed officials to conduct a technical and financial feasibility study. The proposed network is intended to improve connectivity between important port and coastal areas while also providing an alternative mode of public transport.
The 11 stations finalised so far are Jeppinamogaru NH, Northern Sandbar, Old Port, Port Ferry, Sandpit Bengre, Bangra Kulur, Kulur Bridge, Kasba Bengre, Sultan Battery, Jeppinamogaru Old Ferry and Tannirbhavi Church.
Kulur Bridge is expected to play an important role in the proposed network. Officials are considering two separate stations at the location, based on Ro Ro and floating station models.
According to Shashidhar, Assistant Executive Engineer of the Mangaluru Port and Fisheries Sub Division, the preliminary report has already been submitted to the government.
The proposed water transport system is expected to make use of Mangaluru’s network of waterways and could provide an alternative to road travel. Officials believe this could help reduce pressure on busy roads while improving connectivity between several parts of the city and surrounding coastal areas.
The project is also expected to strengthen links between the port and coastal locations, with potential benefits for local transport, tourism and commercial activity.
Details such as passenger fares, the number of boats and service timings are expected to be finalised in the Detailed Project Report. Further progress will depend on the completion of the feasibility assessment and subsequent government decisions.