₹ 50,000 Crore Investment to Transform Inland Waterways Infrastructure
India’s inland waterways, the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) has announced an investment of over ₹ 50,000 crore over the next five years. This initiative, aimed at boosting the infrastructure of national waterways (NWs), was discussed at the second IWDC meeting held in Kaziranga, Assam. With a focus on enhancing economic connectivity, employment generation, and sustainable transport solutions, the plan is expected to significantly transform the logistics and tourism sectors.
The IWDC meeting, presided over by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, unveiled a series of important projects designed to improve infrastructure and encourage socio-economic growth along India’s national waterways. A highlight of the meeting was the announcement of new investments in 21 national waterways, with more than Rs 1,400 crore earmarked for various initiatives. Sonowal emphasised the importance of inland waterways in decongesting overburdened roadways and railways while providing a more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective transport option. He pointed out that inland waterways could serve as a viable mode of transport for both passengers and cargo, contributing significantly to India’s economic growth.
A central initiative discussed during the meeting was the Riverine Community Development Scheme, aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of communities living along the rivers. This scheme will focus on the development of infrastructure, promoting trade, tourism, skill training, and upgrading traditional knowledge about rivers in these communities. Officials are optimistic about the long-term impact of these projects on local populations, especially in remote and underdeveloped regions. The scheme’s focus on generating employment opportunities and providing training will enhance the skill set of the local workforce, creating new avenues for sustainable growth. Among the significant new developments announced was the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence (RCoE) in Dibrugarh, Assam. This centre will be responsible for incubating an ecosystem that trains and develops manpower for the inland waterways transport (IWT) sector, ensuring a skilled workforce for the industry’s growth.
The Union Minister also highlighted several initiatives across different states, including the construction of floating steel jetties on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh, new jetties for cruise tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, and the operationalisation of rivers like Chenab and Ravi for tourism purposes. These measures are set to improve urban transportation and enhance tourism, particularly in scenic and historically significant regions. Another key announcement was the goal to launch 1,000 green vessels across the national waterways. These eco-friendly vessels will reduce the environmental impact of transport operations while contributing to the growth of the inland waterway network. Sonowal underscored the importance of sustainability, noting that inland waterways offer a low-carbon alternative to traditional road and rail transport.
The Minister also touched upon the significant progress made in river cruise tourism, with the number of river cruise vessels increasing from just three in 2013-14 to 25 in 2023-24. This growth signals a flourishing sector that promises to draw tourists, boost local economies, and create jobs in regions that offer unique river tourism experiences. Sonowal also highlighted efforts to facilitate regional trade through strategic agreements with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. These partnerships are expected to improve trade routes and ensure seamless transport connectivity across South Asia, unlocking economic opportunities for India’s northeastern states and boosting regional cooperation. Officials are optimistic about the potential of these initiatives to transform India’s inland waterways into a modern, efficient, and sustainable transport network. By investing in infrastructure and promoting green practices, the government aims to reduce logistics costs, improve connectivity, and create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both urban and rural communities. As these projects move forward, the Inland Waterways Development Council remains committed to building a strong, resilient future for the inland waterways sector.
