India Invests $5.8 Billion in Inland Waterways
India’s Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) has made a significant announcement regarding the enhancement of the country’s inland waterways network. During its second meeting, the council revealed a massive investment of Rs 500 billion (approximately $5.8 billion). This financial commitment aims to strengthen infrastructure along national waterways, marking a pivotal moment for India’s transportation and logistics sectors.
Strengthening Infrastructure for Economic Growth
The IWDC’s investment will focus on improving the infrastructure of 21 inland waterways, with an allocation of over Rs 14 billion ($162.4 million) for various initiatives. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), which operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), will spearhead these efforts. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the importance of upgrading Inland Waterways Transport (IWT) during the meeting. He stated that the government plans to develop shipbuilding and repair facilities across all national waterways.
This investment is expected to reduce logistics costs significantly, which will, in turn, boost ancillary industries. The IWDC also aims to create employment opportunities for riparian communities, fostering economic inclusion. To support this initiative, the Ministry plans to establish nine Regional Centres of Excellence (RCoE) to enhance skills and encourage innovation in the marine and IWT sectors. These centers will play a crucial role in training manpower and promoting research, ultimately leading to the creation of more Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) across the nation.
Key Projects and Future Plans
The IWDC’s ambitious plans include several key projects across different states. In Andhra Pradesh, the construction of six floating steel jetties on the Godavari River (National Waterway 4) has been announced. Additionally, a feasibility study for the Penna River (National Waterway 79) will be conducted, along with a detailed project report for further development insights on National Waterway 4.
In Assam, a Regional Centre of Excellence will be established in Dibrugarh, aimed at fostering a training ecosystem for the IWT sector. The government also plans to design, construct, and commission 12 vessels, including a survey vessel for the Barak River (National Waterway 16). Furthermore, two steel pontoons with gangways will be procured for terminal facilities under a Centrally Sponsored Scheme.
In Goa, the construction of ten community jetties across three rivers has been approved, along with proposals for fairway maintenance. All national waterways in Goa will be equipped with Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMS) to enhance safety and efficiency. The government is also focusing on boosting cruise tourism and urban transportation, with plans for seven jetties on the Jhelum River (National Waterway 49) in Jammu & Kashmir. In Ladakh, two jetties and one green vessel will be funded on the Indus River (National Waterway 46).
In December 2024, the ‘Jalvahak’ scheme was introduced to incentivize long-haul cargo movement on the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Barak rivers, establishing fixed scheduled services between key locations. The IWDC, established in 2023, aims to maximize the economic potential of inland water bodies through coordinated efforts between the central and state governments. This comprehensive approach is set to transform India’s inland waterways into a vital component of the nation’s transportation infrastructure.