Chennai Water Metro Feasibility Study Underway
Chennai has begun the first phase of feasibility studies for its upcoming Water Metro project, planned along the 53-km stretch between Napier Bridge and Kovalam via the Buckingham Canal.
Modelled after the Kochi Water Metro, launched in 2023, the project aims to ease traffic congestion and boost tourism. Passenger ferry services are proposed for daily commuters and visitors, with multiple agencies including CUMTA, Water Resources Department, and Tamil Nadu Maritime Board working together.
To enable the project, the canal must be restored and dredged, with sewage treatment plants, water monitoring, aeration, and waste clearance planned. The restoration and metro system are expected to cost ₹3,000–₹5,000 crore.
A Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be prepared within a year after state government approval. Officials also noted that treated canal water could be supplied to industries to help cover maintenance costs.
The Water Metro is expected to transform urban transport in Chennai, with ten water routes identified for tourism. If successful, it could be integrated into a larger 1,078 km national waterway project linking Tamil Nadu with Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Puducherry
