Surat Charts New Waters: Feasibility Study Underway For Gujarat’s First Water Metro On Tapi River

Surat is a step closer to potentially becoming Gujarat’s first city to launch a water metro service, following a feasibility study conducted by an expert team from the Kochi Water Metro. If implemented, Surat will join Kochi, Kerala, as only the second city in India to adopt this innovative mode of sustainable water transport.

Invited by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), the two-member team comprised coastal engineering expert Nishanth K and transport engineer Arjun Krishna.

During their visit, they surveyed a 33-km stretch of the Tapi River, from the Singapore Causeway to Kamrej and upstream to Dumas, to assess the feasibility of water metro services.

While Nishanth K highlighted the potential for a water metro in Surat, he identified key challenges such as fluctuating water levels, strong river flows during monsoons, and the lack of tidal conditions present in Kochi.

To address these concerns, the team will analyse data including flood water levels, discharge patterns from the Ukai Dam, and underwater conditions. A detailed survey, including bathymetric analysis, will map the riverbed features and provide deeper insights into project viability.

The proposed water metro will utilize battery-operated boats with a capacity of 100 passengers, ensuring an eco-friendly transportation solution. To enhance connectivity, SMC plans to integrate water metro terminal stations with the city’s metro rail, Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), and local bus networks, reports Financial Express.

The Kochi team will deliver an initial report based on SMC-provided data, including rainfall patterns, riverbed depth, and water-carrying capacity. This preliminary assessment will guide the development of a comprehensive plan for the project.

With a detailed analysis underway, Surat is advancing toward becoming a hub for sustainable water transportation, offering a cleaner, greener alternative for urban mobility. Initial findings are expected next week, marking significant progress in this visionary initiative.