The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) is advancing plans for the Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP), drawing inspiration from the successful Kochi Water Metro system. This project is set to enhance the city’s transportation network by establishing waterway connectivity along the Netravati and Phalguni rivers. The proposed route will stretch from Bajal to Maravoor, significantly improving travel options for both residents and visitors. The board has completed initial preparations and is in the process of drafting a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to outline the project’s phases and implementation strategy.
MWMP aims to leverage the natural waterways to create an eco-friendly, reliable, and efficient mode of public transportation. Once completed, it will not only provide an alternative to road travel, thereby alleviating traffic congestion, but also offer scenic routes that blend seamlessly with the region’s natural beauty. The project’s design takes inspiration from Kochi’s model, which has set benchmarks for sustainable and innovative water transit systems in India. This endeavor underscores Karnataka’s commitment to integrating modern infrastructure with environmental sustainability and improved urban mobility.
Two years ago, the Karnataka Maritime Board introduced a barge project aimed at leveraging the designation of the Gurpur and Netravati rivers as National Waterways 43 and 74 to support goods and passenger transport. Although this initiative intended to link Hoige Bazaar to Kulur, it has not been implemented.
The new Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP) will cover a route from Bajal to Maravoor Bridge, featuring stations at strategic points like Someshwara Temple, Ullal, Hoige Bazaar, Boloor, and NMPT. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah formally announced the project during the 2024-25 budget presentation, emphasizing the need for preliminary studies on demand, land availability, and route feasibility. This project also includes evaluating a roll-on/roll-off model to reduce vehicle congestion at Old Port, showing a comprehensive plan for optimizing urban transit.
Drawing inspiration from the Kochi Water Metro—the first of its kind in India with 78 boats and 38 jetties connecting 10 islands—the Mangaluru Water Metro will aim to provide a safe, affordable, and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation, reinforcing the region’s connectivity and easing traffic congestion.