Kolkata to Set Sail with Water Metro: Major Maritime Boost Under Sagarmala 2

West Bengal, led by CM Suvendu Adhikari, outlines ambitious maritime plans including a Water Metro and involvement in Sagarmala 2. The state aims for coastal development and enhanced port connectivity, proposing Rs 22,700 crore projects, highlighting the government's shift towards infrastructural growth and international recognition of regional events.

West Bengal is steering towards a maritime renaissance as Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced Kolkata's integration into the Water Metro system, becoming the 18th Indian city to adopt this aquatic transit mode. This development marks a major stride in the state's involvement with the Central Government's Sagarmala 2 initiative.

Addressing a press conference, CM Adhikari detailed that the state has committed to projects worth Rs 22,700 crore over the next five years. These projects will enhance coastal fishing infrastructure, develop islands, and introduce various maritime initiatives. A particularly notable proposal includes the construction of 44 new jetties and an underground tunnel, expanding infrastructure significantly.

Furthermore, the chief minister highlighted a strategic pivot to a new site for the deep-sea port project previously slated at Tajpur, with discussions ongoing with key industry stakeholders such as Karan Adani. The state is also ramping up port security coordination and ghat beautification, and plans for the creation of a dedicated Shipping Department in West Bengal are underway to bolster these initiatives.