The first phase of feasibility studies for Chennai’s Water Metro project is underway along the Buckingham Canal stretch between Napier Bridge and Kovalam.

Modelled on the Kochi Water Metro, launched in 2023, the project aims to decongest city roads while promoting tourism. Passenger ferry services are planned on a 53-km corridor, with officials identifying sites for ferry terminals, workshops, and supporting infrastructure. The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), Water Resources Department, and Tamil Nadu Maritime Board are jointly driving the initiative.

A critical prerequisite is large-scale restoration of the Buckingham Canal. Authorities emphasized dredging, desilting, and installing sewage treatment plants, aeration units, and water quality monitoring systems. Canal cleaning is expected not only to enable safe water transport but also to mitigate urban flooding. The project is estimated to cost between Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore. Officials noted that supplying treated canal water to industries could generate revenue to offset operational expenses.

Once the feasibility study concludes, the proposal will be submitted to the state government, followed by a detailed project report (DPR). With 10 potential water routes identified, the Water Metro could eventually integrate into a 1,078-km national waterway network.