Authorities in Chennai have started work on the first phase of feasibility studies for the city’s proposed Water Metro project, which aims to ease road traffic while boosting tourism.
The Tamil Nadu government has taken inspiration from Kochi’s Water Metro, which began operations in 2023. Kochi’s system has 16 planned routes, of which four are already running.
Following this model, the state government wants to bring a similar water-based public transport network to the state capital.
In the initial stage, ferry services have been proposed along a 53-kilometre stretch of Buckingham Canal, starting from Napier Bridge and running up to Kovalam.
For this, officials are identifying possible locations for ferry terminals, workshops, and related infrastructure. The project involves several agencies, including the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), Water Resources Department, and Tamil Nadu Maritime Board.
One of the most important requirements for the project is the restoration of Buckingham Canal. This means dredging the canal and cleaning it up by setting up sewage treatment plants, water aeration systems, and water quality monitoring facilities.
Officials point out that this clean-up will also help reduce urban flooding, a major issue in Chennai, along with allowing ferries to move smoothly.
Cost and future plans
According to a report by local news outlet Daily Thanthi, the estimated cost of the project is between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore.
Part of the plan also includes reusing treated canal water for industries, which could generate revenue and help fund the long-term maintenance of the Water Metro.
Once feasibility studies are completed, a detailed proposal will be submitted to the state government. The Water Resources Department is expected to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) within a year.
To boost tourism, officials have already identified 10 water routes that could be developed for leisure and travel. In the long term, Chennai’s Water Metro could even connect to a 1,078-km national waterway network that links Tamil Nadu with Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry.
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