PANAJI
The Goa government has appointed Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Water Metro project. The assignment will cost the State exchequer Rs 5.88 crore.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said KMRL will study potential water transport routes across Goa and submit the DPR within three months.
The report will assess the feasibility of introducing a Water Metro system to strengthen water-based public transport and improve connectivity through the State’s inland waterways.
The project, first proposed by the River Navigation Department, is modelled on Kerala’s Kochi Water Metro. It envisages a 111-km transport network across Goa’s rivers, with 32 ferry terminals, floating pontoons, facilities for persons with disabilities, and modern docking infrastructure.
The plan includes 87 hybrid-electric vessels operating on eight river corridors and one sea route.
These services are proposed to connect Panaji, Vasco da Gama, Dona Paula, Old Goa and Fort Aguada with island villages such as Chorao and Vanxim.
High-traffic routes, including Panaji–Reis Magos–Fort Aguada–Baga Creek–Chapora and Panaji–Britona–Chorao–Naroa, are expected to be prioritised.
The project is estimated to carry 43,000 passengers daily by 2025, increasing to 60,000 by 2041. Its Economic Internal Rate of Return has been projected at 15.83%, suggesting financial viability while also helping reduce road congestion and emissions.
Officials, however, said the project faces challenges such as siltation at river mouths and tidal activity near Fort Aguada, which will require engineering solutions.
The State government plans to create a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to handle tendering and oversee implementation once the DPR is finalised. The Water Metro is being projected as a major boost to Goa’s public
transport system.
