India Launches National River Traffic and Navigation System to Enhance Inland Waterways
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, unveiled the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) at the second meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) held in Kaziranga, Assam. The IWDC, a key policy deliberation platform for the promotion of inland waterways in India, saw the announcement of several large-scale initiatives aimed at enhancing the country’s river transport network.
This announcement marks a transformative step towards strengthening India’s infrastructure, with investments of more than Rs 50,000 crore over the next five years. Additionally, initiatives worth over Rs 1,400 crore were revealed to improve inland waterways across 21 states, which will significantly impact economic growth and boost trade, tourism, and employment. The meeting was presided over by Sonowal and attended by key stakeholders from across the nation, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. One of the major highlights of the event was the launch of the National River Traffic and Navigation System, designed to ensure the safe and efficient movement of vessels on India’s national waterways. This system aims to optimise traffic management and improve safety protocols for inland vessels, which will be vital for ensuring seamless transportation of goods and passengers across the country’s extensive river network.
Moreover, the IWDC meeting introduced the Riverine Community Development Scheme, an initiative to uplift the socio-economic status of communities living along the banks of national waterways. The scheme focuses on developing infrastructure, promoting trade, enhancing tourism, and offering skill enrichment training to riverine communities. This project is set to boost the livelihoods of thousands of people, making a tangible impact on local economies while preserving traditional knowledge of river ecosystems. Another key focus of the IWDC was the promotion of green energy in the transport sector. Union Minister Sonowal announced plans to launch 1,000 green vessels powered by solar energy in the next five years. These vessels will play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions, supporting India’s commitment to combating climate change while improving the sustainability of the inland waterways sector.
The meeting also laid the groundwork for the development of shipbuilding and ship repair facilities across national waterways, which will not only enhance the efficiency of inland transport but also create numerous employment opportunities. As the government aims to make inland waterways a competitive and sustainable mode of transport, the long-term benefits are expected to be far-reaching—reducing congestion on roads and railways, improving air quality, and facilitating smoother trade routes. One of the most important aspects of these initiatives is their ability to provide a sustainable and efficient transportation alternative. Shifting a significant portion of cargo and passenger transport to waterways will contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and alleviating the pressure on overburdened road and rail networks. Furthermore, the employment and training initiatives will empower local communities, particularly in coastal and riverine areas, enhancing the socio-economic conditions of these regions. The launch of the National River Traffic and Navigation System and the series of investments announced at the IWDC meeting marks a pivotal moment for India’s inland waterways. These initiatives promise to foster economic growth, create jobs, and significantly enhance the sustainability of transport in the country. The focus on green energy, community development, and infrastructure improvement sets the stage for a more efficient, eco-friendly, and prosperous future for India’s river transport system.
