The government has planned to conduct a feasibility study for developing an urban water transport system in 17 cities. The selection of these cities is based on key parameters such as a minimum population of 1 million, proximity to existing navigable inland waterways, and the presence of substantial ferry services.
The work to conduct a feasibility study which includes Mangalore (Gurupura river), has been awarded to Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL). Among the 17 identified locations, Guwahati and Dhubri in Assam represent the northeast region. As of now, there are no plans to expand the study to additional cities, including Chhattisgarh, and implementation will be based on the study’s recommendations.