Mangaluru is preparing to launch its own Water Metro, inspired by the success of the Kochi model in Kerala. The Karnataka Maritime Board (KMB) has taken a major step towards introducing eco-friendly and efficient river transport with the Mangaluru Water Metro Project (MWMP). This initiative aims to establish a sustainable public transportation system along the region’s national waterways.

The Mangaluru River Metro will connect isolated areas on both sides of the Nethravathi (NW-74) and Gurupura (NW-43) rivers, stretching over a 30 km route from Bajal to Maravoor. Marked in red on navigation maps, this route is expected to significantly improve connectivity for communities along the river’s banks, boosting local economies and improving quality of life for residents. Prioritizing sustainability and affordability, the project is designed to provide a modern alternative to traditional transportation methods.

Once completed, the Mangaluru River Metro will be India’s second largest river transport network, after Kochi, and will feature a fleet of electric and diesel catamarans. These ships will be equipped with modern equipment to ensure comfort and safety, serving commuters and tourists. With the Karnataka government and KMB overseeing the project, the Mangaluru River Metro is set to transform the city’s transport landscape.

ITINERARY AND SUGGESTED STATIONS

The Mangaluru River Metro project will be developed in phases, initially focusing on a 30 km stretch connecting Bajal on the Nethravathi River to Maravoor Bridge on the Gurupura River. This route will include 17 Eau metro stations, strategically located on the left and right banks. The planned stations are:

Suggested stations
The Mangaluru River Metro will have 17 stations strategically located along its 30 km route, providing convenient access to commuters and tourists. The proposed stations are:

1. Bajal
2. Someshwara Temple
3. Jeppinamogaru
4. Facing the Bolar Sea (beach view)
5. Ullal (Kotepura)
6. Hoige Bazar (CMFRI)
7. Bengre
8. Bunder (Old Port)
9. Bolur-Bokkapatna
10. Thannir Bhavi
11. Sultan Batheri
12. New Mangalore Port (NMPA)
13. Bangra Kuluru
14. Kuluru Bridge
15. Baikampady industrial zone
16. Kunjath Bail
17. Maravoor Bridge

These stations are conveniently placed to enhance both daily travel and tourism, offering a unique way to explore Mangaluru’s scenic waterways. Once completed, the Water Metro will not only improve local transport connectivity but also increase the cultural and environmental appeal of the city, making Mangaluru a greener and more integrated urban hub.

In India, Aquatic metro systems are either operational or in the planning stages in the following cities:

1. Kochi, Kerala – Kochi Water Metro

   • Status: Under development (partially operational)
   • The Kochi River Metro is the first river metro project in India. It aims to integrate public river transport with the city’s existing transport infrastructure. The system uses electric boats to connect the mainland to neighboring islands and coastal areas.

2. Mangaluru, Karnataka – Mangaluru Water Metro

   • Status: Planned (under development)
   • The Mangaluru Water Metro project will connect the city’s main rivers (Nethravathi and Gurupura) with 17 stations. This project is expected to improve connectivity and offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional transportation.

These two cities are the major locations where water metro systems are being implemented in India, with Kochi being the first to deploy such a system.