In a significant step toward enhancing inland water transport infrastructure in Kerala, officials of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) held discussions with Ramesh Chennithala, Minister for Home Affairs and Vigilance, Government of Kerala, regarding the expeditious completion of the Thrikunnapuzha Navigational Lock Gate project on National Waterway-3.
The meeting was attended by Mons Joseph, Minister for Water Resources, and Biswanath Sinha. Discussions focused on resolving pending issues and ensuring the timely execution of the critical infrastructure project, which is considered vital for improving navigability along Kerala’s inland waterways network.
The Thrikunnapuzha Navigational Lock Gate is a key component of National Waterway-3, one of India’s busiest inland waterways corridors stretching through Kerala. Once completed, the facility is expected to facilitate smoother vessel movement, improve operational efficiency, and reduce disruptions caused by varying water levels along the route.
Officials highlighted that the project will play an important role in strengthening inland water transport, promoting sustainable logistics, and enhancing connectivity for cargo and passenger movement across the state. Improved navigation infrastructure is also expected to support economic activities in the region by providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of transport.
The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between the Central and State governments to accelerate infrastructure development on National Waterway-3, in line with broader initiatives to boost multimodal transport and unlock the full potential of Kerala’s extensive waterways network.
With renewed focus on the project’s completion, stakeholders expressed confidence that the Thrikunnapuzha Navigational Lock Gate will significantly contribute to the growth and modernization of inland water transport in Kerala.
