Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rhenus Logistics India, an international logistics firm

This seeks to enhance multimodal freight transport and private involvement in India’s inland waterways sector.

Concerning Inland Waterway Transport (IWT):

What does Inland Waterway Transport (IWT) refer to?

IWT pertains to the transportation of commodities and individuals via navigable rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks utilizing boats, barges, or ferries. It is an economical, eco-friendly, and efficient means of transportation.

Main Efforts to Enhance IWT in India:

Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Initiative financed by the World Bank to enhance the capacity of NW-1 (Ganga).

Covers dredging, terminal construction, and navigation equipment.

• Sagarmala Initiative: Combined with IWT to enhance port-driven growth and inland connectivity.
• National Waterways Act, 2016: Designated 111 waterways as National Waterways (NWs) for enhancement.
• Jal Vikas Marg Society (JVMS): An organizational structure within IWAI for overseeing projects supported by the World Bank.
• ‘Jalvahak’ Cargo Promotion Scheme (2024): Offers reimbursement of up to 35% on operating costs for cargo transporters utilizing IWT.
• Ganga Vilas Cruise and River Tourism Projects: Enhances traveler numbers and tourism prospects on NW-1 and NW-2.

Regarding the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI):

Founded: 1986 under the IWAI Act of 1985

Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Shipping, Ports, and Waterways (MoSPW)

Main office: Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Goals:

• Establish and oversee national waterways.
• Improve navigation infrastructure
• Guarantee sustainable and budget-friendly logistics and transportation options.
• Advocate for PPP frameworks and private sector funding in inland water transport