Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) has announced a series of initiatives and investments aimed at strengthening the national waterways infrastructure in the country. The second meeting of IWDC, organised by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), announced an investment plan of over Rs 50,000 crores over the next five years.
The meeting was held at Kohora in Assam’s Kazirang and was attended by key ministers and officials, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, and various state ministers responsible for transport and waterways.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised the importance of revitalising the inland waterways sector, saying, “IWDC has anchored a new vista for cooperative federalism as both the governments at Union and the states discussed, deliberated, debated and dwelled on multiple aspects for strengthening of inland waterways.”
“Historically, the role of inland waterways has been paramount for civilisations. However, this basic tenet of development remained ignored until 2014. Under the dynamic leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are attempting at rejuvenating the support system of inland waterways so that we decongest railways and roadways and at the same time, provide a viable, economic, sustainable and efficient mode of transportation for both passengers and cargo operators,” Sonowal added
The meeting also witnessed the unveiling of several initiatives worth over Rs 1,400 crores across 21 inland waterway states. These initiatives aim to bolster the inland waterways transport network, promote trade and tourism, and create new opportunities for economic development.
One of the key announcements was the launch of the Riverine Community Development Scheme, aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities. This scheme will focus on developing infrastructure, promoting trade and tourism, enhancing the riverine ecosystem, and providing skill enrichment training for communities living along the national waterways.
The Union Minister also announced the launch of the National River Traffic & Navigation System (NRT&NS), which is designed to ensure the seamless and safe movement of inland vessels. Additionally, the Central Database Module & Issuance of Certificates was introduced to streamline the certification process for vessel owners, thereby promoting smooth operations in the sector.
On the occasion, Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed his support for the initiative, highlighting the positive impact on Assam’s development. “This development will not only enhance transportation but also position Assam as a major tourist destination,” he said, adding that the strengthened infrastructure would play a vital role in the state’s broader development goals.
The IWDC meeting also recognised the efforts of top-performing cargo vessel owners for their significant contribution to utilizing national waterways for transporting goods.
With these substantial investments and policy measures, the government aims to unlock new opportunities for sustainable transportation, enhance connectivity, and boost economic growth across India’s vast inland waterway network.
