What’s inside:
This article talks about the new water transport initiatives in Bihar, including cost benefits and new infrastructure.
In Patna, the Transport Minister has shared some interesting news about water transport. They have found that moving goods by water is much cheaper compared to road and rail transport. While it costs ₹3.62 per tonne/km on roads and ₹2.41 per tonne/km by rail, water transport only costs ₹1.30 per tonne/km.
This new initiative aims to make transporting goods more affordable. It is also expected to ease traffic on the roads by 30 to 40 percent. The government plans to build industrial clusters and terminals along major rivers like the Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, and Son, which will help in exporting heavy materials like sand and cement.
One of the key projects is happening in Kalughat, Sonpur, where a multimodal terminal is being set up. This terminal will handle about 77,000 containers each year and can accommodate two large cargo ships at once. There is also a logistics park being built, providing modern facilities to keep goods safe.
In Patna, the Urban Water Metro project is set to become a reality. Two hybrid electric catamaran ships that are pollution-free and air-conditioned will be introduced. Additionally, cruise terminals are being developed at popular spots like Digha and Kangan Ghats, along with a facility for ship repairs.
To support these developments, three new navigation training institutes will open in Buxar, Bhagalpur, and Darbhanga. These will help train local youth in water transport. Moreover, the government is forming the Bihar Maritime Board to manage future projects like the water metro and logistics hubs.
Summary:
- Water transport is now cheaper than road and rail.
- New terminals and industrial clusters will boost exports.
- A multimodal terminal in Sonpur will handle thousands of containers.
- Patna will see the launch of a pollution-free water metro.
- New training institutes will prepare youth for jobs in water transport.
