India’s cargo movement on inland waterways has increased from 29 million metric tonnes in 2014-15 to 218 million metric tonnes in 2025-26, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.13 per cent, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
The cargo volume has already surpassed the target of 200 million metric tonnes set under Maritime India Vision 2030, highlighting the growing role of inland waterways in the country’s freight transportation network.
India has 111 National Waterways spanning 20,187 kilometres across 23 states and four Union Territories. The government is strengthening the network through hydrographic surveys, modern navigation infrastructure and digital information systems to improve navigability, operational efficiency and cargo-handling capabilities.
The expansion of inland waterway infrastructure is expected to support greater use of river-based transportation, improve multimodal connectivity and provide industries with additional options for cargo movement. Greater utilisation of waterways could also help ease pressure on road and rail networks while supporting more efficient and sustainable logistics across the country.