Despite the significant potential for developing coastal and inland water metro Mangaluru’s much-anticipated water metro project has remained stalled at the initial stages, even years after it was first proposed.
Inspired by Kochi’s successful water metro system—the first of its kind in India—the project aims to create metro connectivity through the Netravati and Phalguni rivers. While plans were put in motion some time ago, the project has yet to move beyond the early phases, with no clear indications of progress.
A concept note for the water metro has already been prepared and received government approval, but the crucial Detailed Project Report (DPR) has not been developed. While the ports department has submitted the project estimate, key elements such as the routes, station locations, dredging requirements, and operational plans are still pending finalization in the DPR. Only after this stage will tenders be called, consultants appointed, and further steps for actual construction take place.
Mangaluru and the surrounding Dakshina Kannada district hold vast potential for inland waterway tourism. Scenic routes from Adyar to Alive Bagilu along the Netravati River and from Gurupura to Tannirbavi along the Phalguni River provide ideal settings for boathouses and other tourism-related infrastructure. Bringing the water metro to life could significantly enhance both the transport and tourism sectors in the region.
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