Revitalizing India's Inland Waterways
India's rivers, once crucial for transport, are being revitalized by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. This initiative aims to transform rivers from mere promises into efficient logistics avenues.
Current State and Government Initiatives
- India has over 14,500 km of navigable waterways, with 111 declared as national waterways, a significant increase from five in 2014.
- Operational waterways have increased to 32.
- Cargo movement surged from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 145 million tonnes in 2024-25, with aspirations of reaching 200 million tonnes by 2030.
Key Projects and Developments
- The Jal Marg Vikas Project enhances the Ganga river's economic significance, supported by the World Bank.
- The Eastern Waterway Grid Connectivity links the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Barak rivers for seamless transport.
- Ro-Ro and Ro-Pax services offer efficient transport in Assam, Kerala, Bihar, and West Bengal.
Technological and Infrastructure Enhancements
- The Jal Samriddhi portal and Naudharshika river traffic system optimize logistics.
- River tourism grows with 25 cruises across 13 waterways, promoting luxury and sustainability.
- Projects for cruise and eco-tourism on the Narmada, Yamuna, and rivers in Jammu & Kashmir are underway.
Legislative and Environmental Efforts
- The National Waterways Act (2016) and Inland Vessels Act (2021) regulate and standardize the sector.
- Harit Nauka Guidelines (2024) encourage hybrid and eco-friendly vessels.
- IWAI promotes sustainability with hybrid electric and hydrogen-fuel-cell vessels.
Skill Development and Future Outlook
- Regional centers of excellence are being established for skill development in navigation and vessel management.
- The upcoming 'India Maritime Week 2025' will focus on innovations in inland waterways.
The revival of India's waterways reflects the nation's capacity to harness latent potential for a sustainable future, intertwining economic, environmental, and cultural development.
