Mangaluru: With multiple connectivity facilities like national highways, ports and airports, Mangalore is now planning to launch a water metro project on the model of Kochi in Kerala, officials said.
The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has decided to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) for the Mangalore Water Metro Project (MWMP). The project aims to connect Bajal to Maravoor on both banks of the Netravati and Gurupura rivers.
If implemented, this project will become the second largest water transport system in India after Kochi. Officials said that this project is environmentally friendly. Initially, the boats will ply along the Netravati-Gurupur river backwaters for a distance of about 30 kilometers. Later, starting from Bajal, it will be extended to the Maravoor bridge in Gurupur.
It will have around 17 modern metro stations. The project aims to achieve holistic development. The project will increase livelihood opportunities and improve the quality of life, a KMB official said. The project aims to promote economic growth, solve traffic problems and reduce carbon emissions.
Important places like Someshwara Temple, Ullal and Navamangaluru Port have been included in the proposed route. Under this project, state-of-the-art electric and diesel boats will be used. The boats will be provided with necessary basic facilities, officials said.
Mangaluru to introduce water metro system based on Kochi model
The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) is planning to introduce the Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP), modelled after the successful Kochi Water Metro system, in the city.
The board has completed preparations to draft a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The project aims to establish a water metro network from Bajal to Maravoor, connecting the Netravati and Phalguni rivers.
