Water taxis to connect Barrackpore and Babughat to ease road congestion, announces Arjun Singh

State Transport Minister Arjun Singh on Friday announced that the state government will introduce a water taxi service between Barrackpore and Babughat as part of its plan to expand water-based public transport on the Ganges. He said the initiative is aimed at reducing road traffic congestion and improving passenger convenience. The minister added that the water taxi network would also provide connectivity to several other locations along the river, while services between Babughat and Metiaburuz are also planned. He further said that long-distance passenger vessels would operate on the Ganges under the expanded water transport network.

Speaking to reporters after attending the Khuti Puja at Golghar Park in Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas, Arjun Singh said the government is giving equal importance to waterways and road transport. He also announced that more government buses would be deployed across the state, including Kolkata, before the Durga Puja festivities. According to the minister, the expansion of water transport is also intended to help reduce environmental pollution.

The state government is also preparing to launch a Water Metro service on the Ganges after receiving approval from Nabanna. According to the information provided, the service will use battery-operated electric hybrid boats similar to those operating in Kochi. Around 50 jetties have already been modernised with World Bank assistance, while 13 e-vessels worth ₹250 crore are being introduced. In addition, 22 more vessels have been built and are expected to be deployed soon, with smart card gates also being installed as part of the upgraded water transport system.