Goa Water Metro Plan Advances: 9 Routes Selected for Initial Phase, DPR Process Underway.

The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Goa Water Metro project will be completed within the next four months, River Navigation Department (RND) Minister Subhash Phal Dessai announced.

The Goa Government is aiming to secure 100% central funding for the ambitious water transport initiative. The announcement was made during a briefing attended by Loknath Behera, former IPS officer and Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd. (KMRL).

KMRL has been entrusted with the responsibility of preparing the DPR for the Goa Water Metro project. The report will outline the project’s complete roadmap, including route planning, estimated costs, long-term implementation strategy, tourism opportunities and its expected impact on traffic management.

The first phase of the project will focus on nine river connectivity routes. Locations identified in the feasibility study include Panaji, Betim, Divar, Chodan, Vanshi, Sarmanas, Narve, Aldona, Cortalim, Madkai, Adpai and Durbhat.

Speaking at the press briefing, Minister Subhash Phal Dessai said, “We have selected nine routes in Goa, and the DPR will be placed before the government within the next four months. Looking at the steady work carried out by the State, the Centre has given Goa priority and included it in the first phase. The River Navigation Department is fully committed to ensuring the timely execution of the project.”

Loknath Behera said the Water Metro would provide Goa with an alternative transport option and help reduce pressure on existing road networks. The project is expected to ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity, promote tourism and generate employment opportunities in coastal and riverine regions.

The Goa Water Metro is envisioned as a sustainable transport solution that will connect riverine communities while supporting the state’s tourism and mobility needs.