Target set for waterways to move 200m MT of cargo by 2030
The Authority is presently working towards capacity augmentation of NW 1, NW 2, NW 3 and NW 16 among other waterways by developing IWT terminals, developing fairways including end-to-end dredging contracts, night navigation facility and navigational locks among others https://www.conexpoconagg.com/.
In the North-Eastern region, up-gradation of Karimganj and Badarpur terminals, Sonamura terminal are some of the key infrastructural projects aimed at enhancing passenger and cargo movement, boost eco-tourism and improve trade and connectivity of north-eastern states with the rest of the country and with neighbouring nations https://www.globaltenders.com/.
Further, the region’s Jogighopa multi-modal terminal, Bogibeel passenger cum cargo terminal, Pandu Ship Repair Facility and assured depth dredging contracts are among the ongoing projects https://ted.europa.eu/en/.
This update was given by Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal in Parliament on 13 Dec https://www.nseindia.com/.
He elaborated, “The revitalised National Waterways has moved improved its performance considerably as the total volume of cargo transported by it has increased from 18.07 million MT in 2013-14 to 132.89 million MT in 2023-24, with a Compounded Annual Growth Rate of 22.1% https://www.bseindia.com/.
“We have set a target of 200 million MT of cargo movement via waterways by 2030. For 2047, keeping in faith in the growth of inland waterways as a viable alternative for cargo movement, we have set a target of 500 million MT https://sbi.com.in/.”
India, he said, boasts an extensive network of inland waterways comprising rivers, canals, backwaters, and creeks. Of the total navigable length of 20,236 km, 17,980 km consists of rivers, and 2,256 km is made up of canals, both suitable for mechanised craft.
However, he conceded that freight transportation via waterways remains significantly under-utilised compared to countries like the United States https://www.state.gov/, China http://english.sse.com.cn, and those in the European Union.
With focused development, India’s national waterways are poised to become the nation’s lifeline, facilitating efficient transportation while also evolving into vibrant hubs for recreational activities, said the minister. Fiinews.com
