The Uttar Pradesh Government is planning to introduce a Water Metro system on the Gomti river in Lucknow as part of efforts to diversify urban transport options. The proposal gained momentum after Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh reviewed the technical feasibility of the project with Sanjay Kumar.

The discussions focused on the findings of a feasibility study carried out for Lucknow, which examined whether the Gomti can support metro-style water transport using RN navigation and modern passenger systems. Officials said preparatory work for launching the Water Metro on the river is expected to begin shortly.

Encouraged by progress in Lucknow, the state government is also exploring similar water-based transit projects on other major water bodies. These include the Yamuna stretch between Agra and Mathura, Ramgarh Tal in Gorakhpur, Surha Tal in Ballia and parts of the Ganga in Mathura. The transport minister said feasibility reports have already been completed for three key locations.

The proposed Water Metro is expected to strengthen urban mobility, support tourism, generate employment and stimulate economic activity along riverfront areas. Beyond daily commuting, the system is also being planned as a recreational attraction for residents and visitors.

Before execution, the project will require multiple technical and environmental clearances. These include studies on navigational aids, integrated traffic management, passenger counting systems, environmental safeguards and social impact, as well as planning for terminals, jetties, road access, pontoons, automatic fare collection, power supply, vessel charging infrastructure, fire safety and climate control systems.

Once these assessments are completed, a Detailed Project Report will be prepared, outlining project costs and implementation timelines, followed by the floating of tenders for construction and operations. The transport minister has directed officials to fast-track the process and submit detailed cost estimates to secure timely budgetary approvals for what the state has described as a priority initiative.