In a major push for sustainable transport and connectivity, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, announced in the Rajya Sabha that key ministries have been directed to promote the use of India’s Inland Water Transport (IWT) system for cargo movement. As part of the government’s Maritime India Vision (MIV) targets, sectors including Petroleum & Natural Gas, Fertiliser, Food & Public Distribution, Heavy Industries, Steel, and Coal will now earmark a share of their cargo for inland water routes, reducing logistics costs and significantly cutting carbon emissions. Strengthening this vision, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has commissioned the construction of eight hybrid-electric catamarans at Cochin Shipyard Limited, while a hydrogen fuel-cell powered vessel has already been deployed at Varanasi, demonstrating India’s commitment to clean-energy solutions.
Key multi-modal and inter-modal terminals along National Waterways 1, 2 and 16, linked with Kolkata and Haldia ports, are already operational, establishing a robust logistics network. To further enhance efficiency, the Indian Ports Association (IPA) is conducting a feasibility study for a Cargo Facilitation Centre and exploring the integration of coastal shipping with inland waterways, creating a seamless logistics ecosystem.
For India’s travel and tourism sector, these initiatives unlock vast potential. The introduction of hybrid catamarans and hydrogen-powered clean-energy vessels is set to open new avenues for river cruises, eco-tourism, and heritage tourism across the Ganga and Brahmaputra. Improved waterway connectivity will not only encourage greater cargo movement but also offer passengers greener and more sustainable travel experiences. By shifting freight and passenger traffic to waterways, India is positioning its river systems as the new frontier for sustainable logistics and tourism growth, delivering economic efficiency while aligning with global climate goals.
