The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC), the apex body for policy discussions on inland waterways in India, has announced a massive infrastructure upgrade for national waterways, with an investment of over ₹50,000 crores planned for the next five years.

During its second meeting, organized by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), the council unveiled new initiatives worth ₹1,400 crores spanning 21 inland waterway states. The meeting was presided over by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.

Speaking at the event, Sonowal emphasized the transformative potential of inland waterways, stating, “IWDC has anchored a new vista for cooperative federalism as both Union and state governments collaborated to strengthen inland waterways. Historically significant for civilizations, this mode of transport had been overlooked until 2014. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, we are rejuvenating this vital system to decongest railways and roadways while providing an economic, sustainable, and efficient alternative for passenger and cargo transport.”

The minister also revealed plans to launch 1,000 green vessels, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable development in the waterways sector.

Key Developments in Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, several initiatives are underway to enhance inland waterway connectivity:

• Dabhol Creek – Vashishti River (NW28): Fairway maintenance is being prioritized to improve navigability.
• Navigational Aids: These have been introduced in Dabhol Creek–Vashishti River (NW28) and Kalyan–Thane–Vasai Creek–Ulhas River (NW53) to ensure safer navigation.
• New Regional Office: A regional office of IWAI will be established in Mumbai to oversee operations and facilitate development projects in the region.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to unlock the economic potential of waterways while promoting an eco-friendly transportation system.