Chennai's Water Metro: A New Era for Urban Mobility

The Water Resources Department (WRD) is set to initiate work on a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to explore the feasibility of operating a Water Metro and developing National Waterway-4 (NW-4) along the Buckingham Canal, between Ennore and Marakkanam in Tamil Nadu.

As a first step, a ₹31 crore restoration project will be undertaken on a five-kilometre stretch between Chepauk and Greenways Road. Supported by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the DPR will assess key parameters including navigability, pollution control, and structural viability.

Officials noted that dredging will be essential, as heavy siltation has raised the canal bed to one metre above mean sea level, severely limiting water flow and flood-carrying capacity. The plan aims to increase carrying capacity by 700 cusecs, implement bank protection measures, and develop recreational zones, all while ensuring encroachments remain undisturbed.

The canal width varies between 50 to 150 metres, although at least 15 metres is required for navigable operations. Proposals also include installing shutters or tidal gates to regulate water levels throughout the year.

Within Chennai city limits alone, authorities have identified over 5,000 encroachments and 15 sewage outfalls impacting the canal’s health and utility. The DPR will provide a roadmap for integrated development, balancing urban mobility, environmental restoration, and flood mitigation.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.