The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has inaugurated its pivotal office in Srinagar. This strategic establishment, facilitated by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, marks the commencement of extensive initiatives to harness the latent potential of inland water transport within the Union Territory.
The focus lies on developing crucial river navigation infrastructure across three National Waterways: the Chenab (NW-26), the Jhelum (NW-49), and the Ravi (NW-84). Under the aegis of national directives emphasizing eco-friendly and economically viable transportation solutions, the IWAI is poised to initiate comprehensive development works as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the J&K government. These undertakings encompass the installation of floating jetties at ten strategic locations across the region, ensuring accessibility and facilitating seamless movement. Furthermore, meticulous efforts will be directed towards establishing navigable fairways through targeted dredging operations, guaranteeing safe passage for vessels. The implementation of night navigational aids and the execution of regular hydrographic surveys underscore a commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of these emerging waterways.
This ambitious undertaking aligns seamlessly with the broader national vision of leveraging waterways as a robust catalyst for economic advancement. The development of inland water transport terminals and associated infrastructure reflects a proactive approach towards unlocking the inherent capacity of the nation’s rivers. The collaborative synergy between the IWAI and the Jammu and Kashmir government heralds a transformative phase, promising to not only invigorate the local economy but also to significantly promote eco-tourism within the scenic Union Territory. The serene rivers and landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, once primarily appreciated for their aesthetic beauty, are now set to become conduits for sustainable travel and economic activity, offering a unique and environmentally conscious tourism experience. The timing of this initiative is particularly noteworthy against the backdrop of the IWAI’s recent achievement of a record-breaking 145.5 million tonnes of cargo movement on national waterways during the fiscal year 2024-25. This unprecedented surge in cargo traffic, coupled with an increase in the number of operational National Waterways from 24 to 29, underscores the growing significance of inland water transport as an efficient and environmentally sound alternative to traditional modes of transportation. The remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.86 per cent in cargo traffic on National Waterways between FY14 and FY25 further validates the strategic importance of investing in this sector. In the latest fiscal year alone, traffic movement registered a substantial 9.34 per cent year-on-year growth, highlighting the increasing reliance on and effectiveness of inland waterways.
The ongoing development of adequate waterways infrastructure, including Inland Water Transport (IWT) terminals, night navigation facilities, and navigational locks along various National Waterways, is poised to further accelerate this growth trajectory. These strategic interventions are expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of cargo movement, offering a compelling alternative that reduces carbon footprint and promotes ecological balance. The initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir represent a localized yet integral component of this national endeavor, demonstrating a commitment to extending the benefits of sustainable water transport to diverse regions across the country. By focusing on eco-tourism and providing a green mode of transport, this project in Jammu and Kashmir embodies a forward-thinking approach towards regional development that prioritizes both economic prosperity and environmental stewardship.
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