The budget allocated for the Inland Water Transport Authority of India (IWAI) has been increased to Rs 1,944 crore in FY2025-26, a 31% increase from the previous year’s revised budget of Rs 1,644 crore. IWAI is responsible for developing and regulating National Waterways (NWs) in the country, focusing on infrastructure development and Inland Water Transport (IWT) activities. The budget provisions include expenditures on projects like the construction of multimodal terminals, navigation locks, and Ro-Ro terminals, aimed at improving waterway connectivity and facilities.
Additionally, the Chennai Port Authority has received a provision of an interest-free loan of Rs 147 crore for land acquisition and rehabilitation activities related to a new four-lane elevated link road from Chennai Port to Maduravoyal. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has seen an increased budget allocation of Rs 3,471 crore in FY26, a 21% rise from the previous year. This funding is allocated for various development projects under the Sagarmala programme, aimed at enhancing coastal communities, maritime heritage, infrastructure for cargo movement, and innovative projects in the sector.
Under the Sagarmala programme, projects are identified to attract over Rs 5 lakh crore in infrastructure investment, increase the use of domestic waterways, reduce logistic costs, boost exports, and create employment opportunities. Emphasis is also placed on the development of minor ports to enhance connectivity and efficiency in the maritime sector. Overall, the increased budget allocation for IWAI and related projects is expected to have a positive impact on the development of inland waterways and maritime infrastructure in the country.
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