Patna: In a historic move to boost eco-friendly transport and regional trade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for two major waterways development projects in Bihar, virtually inaugurating a new era of inland water transport along the Ganga river.
These projects — part of the ₹75,000 crore Waterways Development Programme launched in Bhavnagar, Gujarat — mark Bihar’s entry into modern water-based urban mobility and logistics infrastructure.
₹4.15 Crore Ship Repair Centre to Be Built in Patna
The Ship Repair Centre (Dry Dock Construction Project) will be built on a 5-acre plot near Kurji along the Ganga river in Patna. The state government allotted the land, and the project is expected to significantly improve the maintenance and efficiency of inland vessels operating on National Waterway-1.
According to IWAI Director Arvind Kumar, the center will streamline water transport operations and enhance operational capabilities of the Inland Waterways Authority of India.
₹908 Crore Water Metro Project: A Game-Changer for Urban Mobility
Also announced was a ₹908 crore Water Metro Project, to be developed under the Urban Water Transport Scheme. An MoU was signed between the Bihar Government and the Central Government to kickstart the initiative, which promises clean, efficient, and modern transport on the Ganga.
- Phase 1 will see 25 electric-powered vessels operating between Digha and Kangan Ghat.
- Future expansions will connect Hariharnath Ghat (Hajipur), Sonpur, Kohnerwa Ghat, and Chechar Ghat.
- Cruise terminals will also be constructed at Digha and Kangan Ghat, boosting tourism and commerce.
Leaders Laud PM Modi for Historic Push to Bihar’s Waterways
The live virtual inauguration event, broadcast under the aegis of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) at Gaighat in Patna, saw enthusiastic participation from dignitaries including:
- Ravi Shankar Prasad, Former Union Minister and Patna Sahib MP
- Sanjeev Prasad Chaurasia, Digha MLA
- Sita Sahu, Mayor of Patna Municipal Corporation
Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Shankar Prasad hailed the projects as a “transformational gift to Bihar”, saying they align with the Government of India’s vision of developing waterways similar to the national highway network. Sanjeev Chaurasia echoed this, calling it a proud moment for Digha and the entire state.
Why It Matters: New Lifeline for Bihar’s Economic Growth
This marks the first time Bihar will get access to water metro and inland ship maintenance infrastructure. With this initiative:
- The state can expect improved logistics efficiency, reducing road congestion.
- The water metro will offer green, affordable public transport.
- Employment and economic activity in tourism and trade will get a boost.
