Sarbananda Sonowal Introduces Digital Portal for National Waterways Infrastructure

The government has launched a dedicated digital portal designed to invite private investment in the development of jetties and terminals along the country’s National Waterways.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), is poised to revolutionise the inland water transport (IWT) sector by facilitating smoother regulatory procedures and offering new growth opportunities for private stakeholders. The digital portal aims to simplify the process of securing permissions and approvals for infrastructure projects on National Waterways, directly aligning with the government’s broader push for improving the ease of doing business (EoDB) in the country. This new platform is a key component of the recently introduced National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, which offers a structured framework for private entities to participate in the development and operation of waterway terminals. Under these regulations, entities can now apply for a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from IWAI to develop new or upgrade existing terminals, which can be either permanent or temporary in nature.

By enabling the private sector’s involvement, the government is addressing a critical gap in the infrastructure development of inland waterways. Inland waterways, despite their vast potential, have often been underutilised, primarily due to outdated infrastructure and lack of private sector participation. With the implementation of these new regulations, the focus shifts to creating modern, efficient, and sustainable terminals that will be critical to facilitating increased cargo and passenger movement along India’s vast network of rivers. The first milestone in this new era came with the ceremonial launch of the digital portal, during which the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways handed over the inaugural NoC to a Mumbai-based private company. The company is set to invest approximately Rs 8 crore to establish a jetty on National Waterway-68, along the River Mandovi in Goa. This jetty, designed to accommodate up to 16 yachts and pleasure crafts, will play a crucial role in boosting river cruise tourism, an emerging sector in India’s tourism industry.

The government’s decision to include both permanent and temporary terminals under a unified regulatory framework is a game-changer. Permanent terminals, once established, will operate indefinitely, providing long-term infrastructure stability. On the other hand, temporary terminals, which have a fixed term of five years with an option for renewal, offer greater flexibility for short-term projects or pilot initiatives. This dual approach is designed to attract a wider range of investors by providing different investment timelines and reducing bureaucratic delays. One of the significant benefits of the new regulations is the ease of regulatory approvals. Historically, developing infrastructure along India’s waterways has been mired in complex, time-consuming processes, deterring private players from entering the market. The introduction of the digital portal streamlines this process, making it faster and more transparent for companies to navigate regulatory hurdles.

The minister highlighted that the initiative aligns with the government’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat”, or a developed India, as outlined by the Prime Minister. The country’s inland waterways, once a secondary mode of transport, are now being positioned as an essential element of the national logistics strategy. With cargo movement on Indian waterways surging from 18 million tonnes in 2014-15 to a projected 133 million tonnes in FY 2023-24, the sector’s growth potential is evident. By involving private entities, the government is not only enhancing infrastructure but also creating new employment opportunities, contributing to economic growth. Another key aspect of the project is its emphasis on sustainability. The government is keen on ensuring that the development of waterway terminals follows environmentally friendly practices. The use of eco-friendly construction materials, energy-efficient technologies, and minimal disruption to the natural ecosystem will be core principles in the development of these terminals.

The launch of the National Waterways Regulations, 2025 and the associated digital portal represents a landmark step in transforming India’s inland water transport system. This move promises not only to foster private investment in infrastructure but also to boost the country’s logistics and transportation capabilities, ultimately leading to reduced congestion on roadways and railways. The combination of digital solutions, streamlined processes, and private sector participation positions India’s inland waterways as a major avenue for sustainable economic growth. The continued development of these waterways will be crucial in positioning India as a global leader in logistics and transportation while simultaneously contributing to cleaner, greener infrastructure.

As this initiative gathers momentum, the government’s focus on developing a modern, inclusive, and digitally-driven inland water transport system will undoubtedly pave the way for a more connected, efficient, and environmentally conscious nation.

Sarbananda Sonowal Introduces Digital Portal for National Waterways Infrastructure