Srinagar, Nov 8:
The Jammu & Kashmir government has announced plans to implement a Water Metro system on Dal Lake and the Jhelum River in Srinagar, aiming to modernize transport and boost tourism in the Union Territory. The project, estimated at ₹900 crore, will be executed in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The initiative envisions electric-powered ferries and boats connecting key points across Dal Lake, including Srinagar city, Hazratbal, and the floating market areas, along with routes along the Jhelum River linking major urban and suburban zones. Officials said the project will reduce traffic congestion, provide an eco-friendly travel alternative, and enhance tourist experiences in the region’s iconic waterways.
> “This Water Metro is not just a transport project; it is an effort to leverage our natural resources for sustainable urban mobility and tourism development,” said a senior official in the J&K Department of Tourism.
The project will include modern terminals, automated ticketing systems, and docking stations at strategic locations. It is expected to create thousands of jobs in operations, maintenance, and allied tourism services.
Environmentalists have welcomed the initiative but emphasized the need for strict ecological safeguards to prevent water pollution in Dal Lake, which is already facing environmental stress. The authorities have assured that the project will adopt green technologies and follow guidelines to protect the lake’s delicate ecosystem.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with a phased rollout of services. The Water Metro project positions Srinagar alongside cities like Kolkata and Kochi, which already operate similar water-based public transport systems, and reflects a growing trend of innovative urban mobility solutions in India.
The government hopes the initiative will revitalize tourism, reduce dependence on road transport, and offer residents a faster, scenic, and environmentally sustainable alternative for commuting.
