SRINAGAR: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop an Urban Water Transport System in Srinagar, inspired by the successful Kochi Water Metro model.
The agreement was signed by the Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Kashmir, on behalf of the J&K Government, and the Chief Engineer (Transport & Logistics), IWAI, on behalf of the Authority. The MoU was formally presented to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the presence of Transport Minister Satish Sharma, Secretary Transport Department Avny Lavasa, and RTO Kashmir Qazi Irfan.
The MoU sets a roadmap for developing an integrated, eco-friendly water-based urban transport network connecting key destinations along Dal Lake and River Jhelum. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve intra-city mobility, and promote sustainable transport solutions within the city.
Under the agreement, the J&K Government will extend administrative and logistical support, including required clearances, land acquisition, and development of allied infrastructure. It will also ensure effective first- and last-mile connectivity by integrating the Water Metro with the broader transport network of the Union Territory.
The IWAI will provide technical expertise, maintain navigational channels and aids, conduct capacity-building programmes, and ensure the adoption of modern navigation and safety systems.
The proposed ₹900 crore project envisions the introduction of electric-hybrid boats across multiple routes — five routes with ten terminals on Dal Lake and two routes with eight terminals on River Jhelum. This network will complement the city’s existing road transport and serve as a green alternative for urban commuting.
Both parties have agreed to collaborate on securing necessary statutory and environmental clearances and finalizing the funding structure. A detailed implementation plan will be drawn up in the coming months.
The initiative marks a major milestone in developing a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible transport system for Srinagar. It is expected to significantly enhance mobility, stimulate tourism, and create new livelihood opportunities through sustainable urban transport.
A similar inland water transport model is also under consideration for Jammu, as part of the government’s broader vision to leverage the region’s waterways for integrated and future-ready urban connectivity.
