IWAI Signs MoU with J&K Government for Boosting River Cruise Tourism in J&K

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) government to develop river cruise tourism in the Union Territory. The agreement aims to enhance tourism, generate employment, boost economic growth, and introduce river-based leisure tourism. The signing took place during the Chintan Shivir event in Srinagar, in the presence of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. The initiative will focus on three national waterways in J&K, River Chenab (NW-26), River Jhelum (NW-49), and River Ravi (NW-84), with infrastructure development and navigational improvements to facilitate cruise operations.

Key Highlights of the MoU

Objective

• To promote river cruise tourism in Jammu & Kashmir.
• To create employment and enhance economic growth in the region.
• To develop waterway infrastructure for tourism and leisure travel.

National Waterways in Jammu & Kashmir

• River Chenab (NW-26)
• River Jhelum (NW-49)
• River Ravi (NW-84)

Infrastructure Development

• 10 Floating Jetties and Landside Infrastructure (including waiting halls and passenger amenities).

Locations of Floating Jetties

• River Chenab (NW-26): Akhnoor and Reasi (near Jammu).
• River Jhelum (NW-49): Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Shah-e-Hamdan, Safa Kadal/Chattabal Shrine, Sumbal Bridge, and Gund Prang (Srinagar & Bandipora).
• River Ravi (NW-84): Sohar.

Navigation and Safety Measures

• Dredging operations for smooth vessel movement.
• Navigational aids and regular hydrographic surveys for safe cruising.

Roles and Responsibilities

• IWAI (under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways)
• Develop waterside infrastructure (floating jetties, fairways).
• Ensure safe navigation with aids and hydrographic surveys.

J&K Government

• Provide land for landside facilities.
• Facilitate statutory clearances.
• Appoint cruise operators for different sectors.