The Centre has moved a significant step closer towards introducing a Water Metro system in Guwahati, placing the Assam capital in the first phase of a proposed nationwide urban water transport network aimed at transforming mobility in river-based cities across India.
For Guwahati, a city stretched along the banks of the Brahmaputra and struggling with increasing traffic congestion, the proposal is being viewed as a potentially transformative development in urban transport planning.
Guwahati has been included in Phase I of India’s proposed Water Metro rollout. The project aims to introduce public water transport on the Brahmaputra to ease traffic congestion and improve urban connectivity.
Guwahati Included in National Water Metro Rollout
The announcement came after a high-level review meeting chaired by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal in New Delhi.
During the meeting, the Centre also circulated the Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 for inter-ministerial consultations.
Under the proposed rollout:
- Guwahati has been included in Phase I
- A total of 18 cities across India are being considered for Water Metro systems
The inclusion places Guwahati alongside several nationally important urban centres being considered for river-based public transport.
Why Water Metro Could Change Guwahati
For years, urban planners and residents have argued that the Brahmaputra remains one of Guwahati’s most underutilised transport assets.
The city faces severe traffic pressure across key corridors, including:
- GS Road
- Zoo Road
- Beltola
- Jalukbari
- VIP Road
- Bharalumukh and Paltan Bazar stretches
A Water Metro system could potentially reduce dependence on overcrowded roads by creating an alternative commuting network through the river.
Potential Brahmaputra Connectivity
If implemented successfully, future Water Metro routes in Guwahati could connect:
- North Guwahati
- Pandu
- Fancy Bazaar
- Uzan Bazaar
- Bharalumukh
- Other riverside localities
Experts believe such a system could dramatically improve cross-river mobility while also reducing travel time.
Inspired by the Kochi Water Metro Model
The proposed Guwahati project is expected to draw inspiration from the Kochi Water Metro, India’s first organised urban water transport system.
The model combines:
- Modern electric ferries
- Smart terminals
- Integrated ticketing
- Environment-friendly urban mobility
A similar system on the Brahmaputra could reshape Guwahati’s public transport ecosystem.
Strategic Importance for Assam
The project also aligns with Assam’s broader push towards:
- Urban modernisation
- Riverfront development
- Sustainable transport infrastructure
- Tourism and connectivity expansion
Given Guwahati’s role as the gateway to Northeast India, improved transport systems are considered crucial for long-term growth.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the excitement, experts note that implementation in Guwahati will not be simple.
Key challenges include:
- Seasonal Brahmaputra water-level fluctuations
- River current management
- Terminal infrastructure development
- Integration with existing city transport
- Safety and navigation systems
Environmental clearances and flood-related planning will also be important factors.
Public Interest Growing in Guwahati
The proposal has already generated strong public interest in Guwahati, particularly among commuters frustrated with:
- Daily traffic jams
- Increasing travel times
- Limited public transport alternatives
Many residents believe river transport could finally provide the city with a scalable mobility solution.
Draft Policy Under Consultation
The Draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026, is currently under consultation among ministries and departments.
The policy aims to create a national framework for:
- Urban water transport systems
- Public ferry operations
- Sustainable river mobility infrastructure
What Happens Next
Further technical studies, planning discussions, and feasibility assessments are expected before implementation begins.
If approved and executed effectively, Guwahati could emerge as one of India’s pioneering river cities using the Brahmaputra as a modern public transport corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Water Metro project for Guwahati?
It is a proposed urban water transport system on the Brahmaputra aimed at improving connectivity and reducing traffic congestion.
Which phase includes Guwahati?
Guwahati has been included in Phase I of the proposed national rollout.
Why is the project important for Guwahati?
The city faces growing traffic congestion, and the Brahmaputra offers an alternative transport corridor that remains largely underutilised.