KPMG to device WB-funded project framework

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has engaged consultant KPMG to study and devise a framework for operation and maintenance of the assets being built on National Waterway-1 (NW-1) under the World Bank funded Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP).

This framework will include various institutional and operational models ranging from outsourcing to Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formulation with participating states and other authorities like Railways and Ports, said the Shipping Ministry on 20 Feb 2018.

The consultant will also help in developing the business plan for market development on NW-1 for suitable cost recovery and tariff realization mechanism.

In addition, it will assess to develop a plan for multimodal logistics park near the multimodal terminals being built under at Varanasi, Sahibganj and Haldia.

These multimodal logistics parks will act as freight aggregation and disaggregation centres and promote a hub-and-spoke model of freight movement.

Other broad scope of the study will include gathering market intelligence and reviewing cargo potential and cargo projections, developing a business and execution plan for marketing and commercial development and organize roadshows to generate investment awareness in PPP projects.

The JMVP is being implemented by the IWAI with technical assistance and investment support of the World Bank.

The prominent assets being procured and built under JMVP will be ready by 2018-19. fii-news.com