In its 197th meeting, the Inland Waterways Authority of India approved a comprehensive plan to enhance the inland water transport sector, notably for National Waterway-2. Key initiatives include developing terminal infrastructure, navigation aids, and a skill development center, alongside improving vessel operations and establishing a link road to Pandu Terminal in Assam.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has opened a new office in Srinagar’s Transport Bhawan, enhancing the Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector in Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative, supported by the J&K government, aims to improve river navigation infrastructure, boost eco-tourism, and invigorate the local economy through various projects.
In the fiscal year 2024-25, India’s inland water transport sector reached a remarkable milestone with a record-breaking cargo movement of 145.5 million tonnes reported by the Inland Waterways Authority of India. This achievement reflects successful investments and policy initiatives, as well as an increase in national waterways and a strategic focus on multimodal connectivity.
The budget for India’s Inland Water Transport Authority (IWAI) has been increased to Rs 1,944 crore in FY2025-26, a 31% rise from the previous year. This funding will focus on developing National Waterways, improving infrastructure, and enhancing waterway connectivity. Additionally, the Chennai Port Authority received a loan for land acquisition and road construction.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a Maritime Development Fund of Rs 25,000 crore during the 2025-26 Budget, aimed at boosting the maritime industry and fostering competition. The fund expects to attract Rs 1.5 lakh crore in investments by 2030. Additional measures include extending customs duty exemptions for ship manufacturing and revamping financial assistance policies.
