India to Invest ₹50,000 Crore in National Waterways Over 5 Years

In a significant move to enhance the country’s inland water transport infrastructure, the Indian government has announced an investment of ₹50,000 crore over the next five years. This initiative aims to develop and improve national waterways, promoting sustainable and efficient transportation.

Investment Breakdown and Focus Areas

New Waterways and Green Shipping: Approximately 50% of the total investment is earmarked for the development of new national waterways and the promotion of green shipping initiatives. This includes the introduction of 1,000 green vessels to bolster eco-friendly transportation.

Expansion of Water Metro Projects: Building on the success of Kochi’s Water Metro project, the government plans to extend similar projects to 15 cities, including Guwahati, enhancing urban water transport connectivity.

Infrastructure Development: The plan includes constructing six floating steel jetties on the river Godavari (National Waterway 4) at locations such as Gandipochamma Temple, Pochavaram, and Perantapalli village in Andhra Pradesh, facilitating better access and trade opportunities.

Strategic Importance and Historical Context

The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC), established in 2023, plays a pivotal role in this initiative, fostering collaboration between central and state governments to maximize the economic potential of inland water bodies.

Historically, India’s inland waterways have been underutilized compared to other nations. In 2016, the National Waterways Act was enacted, declaring 111 waterways as national assets to boost cargo and passenger movement. Despite these efforts, only a fraction of trade has been conducted via waterways, highlighting the need for renewed focus and investment.

Future Prospects and Economic Impact

The government’s commitment to investing ₹50,000 crore is expected to revolutionize India’s inland water transport sector. By developing 20 of the 26 viable national waterways, the initiative aims to increase the share of water-based trade, reduce logistics costs, and promote environmentally friendly transportation.

Additionally, the Riverine Community Development Scheme seeks to improve the socio-economic well-being of coastal communities by developing infrastructure, promoting trade and tourism, and enhancing the riverine ecosystem.

Summary of the news

Why in News	Key Points
₹50,000 crore investment for national waterways	– ₹50,000 crore to be invested over 5 years. – 50% of investment for developing new national waterways and green shipping. – 1,000 green vessels to be introduced. – Expansion of Water Metro projects in 15 cities, including Kochi. – Infrastructure development like floating steel jetties.
Government’s initiative to enhance inland water transport	– National Waterways Act, 2016 declared 111 waterways as national assets. – Focus on eco-friendly transportation and reducing logistics costs. – The project includes social and economic development of riverine communities.
Static Points	– Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) established in 2023. – Key cities for Water Metro projects: Kochi, Guwahati. – Rivers like Godavari (National Waterway 4) targeted for floating steel jetties.