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 on the lines of the highly successful Kochi Water Metro.
On behalf of the J&K government, the MoU was signed by the Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Kashmir, while the Chief Engineer (Transport and Logistics) of IWAI signed on behalf of the authority. The MoU was officially presented to Prime Minister Omar Abdullah in the presence of Transport Minister Satish Sharma, Transport Minister Avny Lavasa and RTO Kashmir Qazi Irfan.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation in developing and promoting an integrated, water-based urban transport network connecting key destinations along Dal Lake and the Jhelum River. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve intra-city connectivity and promote sustainable, eco-friendly mobility in Srinagar.
Under the agreement, the J&K government will provide administrative and logistical support, including necessary approvals, land acquisition and development of related infrastructure. It will also ensure efficient first and last mile connectivity and integrate the water metro into the wider urban transport ecosystem of the Union Territory.
The IWAI will provide technical expertise and guidance to the project, oversee the maintenance of navigation channels and aids, and facilitate capacity building programs for inland waterway personnel. It will also ensure navigation safety and the introduction of modern operating systems.
The proposed ₹900 million project envisages creating water transport connectivity through electric hybrid boats for local passenger traffic – with five routes with 10 terminals on Dal Lake and two routes with eight terminals on Jhelum River. This network will complement existing road infrastructure and provide an alternative, environmentally friendly form of urban transport.
Both parties have agreed to work together to obtain legal approvals and consider environmental, forest and local aspects related to the implementation of the project. The funding structure will be finalized through mutual consultation, while a detailed implementation roadmap will be drawn up in the coming months.
This collaboration represents a major step towards developing a reliable, efficient and environmentally friendly public transport system in Srinagar. The project aims to improve urban mobility, boost tourism and create new livelihoods by introducing a modern, sustainable mode of transport.
A similar inland water transport model is also being explored for Jammu, reflecting the government's broader vision of harnessing the potential of the region's waterways for integrated urban transport development.