Vijay Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the progress of key Inland Water Transport (IWT) projects and chart the future roadmap for the sector, with a strong emphasis on infrastructure expansion, operational efficiency, and cargo growth.
The meeting, held with senior officials of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), focused on accelerating the development of India’s inland waterways network and unlocking its full potential as a cost-effective and sustainable mode of transport. Officials presented updates on ongoing projects, traffic trends, fairway development, and the operational status of waterways across the country.
A key highlight of the discussions was the progress of flagship initiatives such as the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) on National Waterway-1, along with the development of new waterways including National Waterway-110 on the Yamuna River. Special attention was also given to projects in the North Eastern region, where inland waterways are being positioned as critical enablers of regional connectivity and economic growth.
The Secretary reviewed efforts to operationalise additional national waterways and stressed the need to enhance multimodal connectivity by integrating waterways with road and rail networks. Emphasis was also laid on improving infrastructure such as terminals, navigational aids, and vessel fleets to ensure seamless movement of cargo and passengers.
Discussions further centred on increasing cargo volumes and promoting cruise tourism through inland waterways. Officials highlighted initiatives aimed at boosting vessel deployment, including environmentally friendly vessels, to support sustainable and green transport solutions.
Shri Vijay Kumar underscored the importance of timely execution, inter-agency coordination, and data-driven monitoring to fast-track project implementation. He also called for improved utilisation of assets and strengthening institutional mechanisms to address operational challenges across states.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the meeting highlighted the strategic role of inland waterways in reducing logistics costs, decongesting roads, and promoting eco-friendly transportation. India, with an extensive network of over 14,000 km of navigable waterways, is aiming to significantly increase the share of inland water transport in the national logistics mix.
The review concluded with a renewed focus on achieving targeted milestones, enhancing efficiency, and positioning inland waterways as a key pillar of India’s multimodal transport ecosystem.
