Why is inland water transport underutilised in Indian cities despite having geographical potential? How can urban planning unlock this mode for sustainable mobility?
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Urbanization, their problems and their remedies
Topic: Urbanization, their problems and their remedies
Q2. Why is inland water transport underutilised in Indian cities despite having geographical potential? How can urban planning unlock this mode for sustainable mobility? (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal recently announced that Patna will soon get water metro services, transforming the city into a hub for inland water transport on the Ganga. Key Demand of the question: The question requires identification of reasons behind the underutilisation of inland water transport in cities despite geographical suitability, and suggestions on how urban planning can make this mode viable and sustainable. Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Mention the paradox of geographical potential vs. practical neglect of water transport in Indian cities. Body: Explain key reasons for underutilisation: seasonal river behaviour, lack of infrastructure, governance issues, absence of integration, and safety lapses. Suggest urban planning solutions: integration into city masterplans, TOD zones, adoption of electric boats, regulatory reforms, and behaviour change strategies. Conclusion: Highlight how reimagining rivers as transport assets can help India build greener and more efficient urban mobility systems.
Why the question: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal recently announced that Patna will soon get water metro services, transforming the city into a hub for inland water transport on the Ganga.
Key Demand of the question: The question requires identification of reasons behind the underutilisation of inland water transport in cities despite geographical suitability, and suggestions on how urban planning can make this mode viable and sustainable.
Structure of the Answer: Introduction: Mention the paradox of geographical potential vs. practical neglect of water transport in Indian cities.
• Explain key reasons for underutilisation: seasonal river behaviour, lack of infrastructure, governance issues, absence of integration, and safety lapses.
• Suggest urban planning solutions: integration into city masterplans, TOD zones, adoption of electric boats, regulatory reforms, and behaviour change strategies.
Conclusion: Highlight how reimagining rivers as transport assets can help India build greener and more efficient urban mobility systems.