On May 26, 2025, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal chaired a Consultative Committee meeting in Mumbai, announcing that 47 new National Waterways (NWs) will be operational by 2027, with cargo volume projected to reach 156 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) by March 2026. This ambitious plan, supported by a ₹5,000 crore roadmap for the Northeast, aims to transform India’s inland waterways into a key logistics and economic corridor. For competitive exam aspirants, this development is a vital current affairs topic, highlighting infrastructure growth and sustainable transport.
Expansion of National Waterways
From 11 States to 23 States and 4 UTs
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) revealed plans to expand inland water transport from 11 states in FY 2024 to 23 states and 4 Union Territories by FY 2027. This includes operationalizing 76 waterways, with 47 new National Waterways by 2027. Projects worth ₹1,400 crore were launched during the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) meeting on January 10, 2025. The IWAI conducts 10,000 km of monthly surveys to ensure navigability, supporting the Maritime India Vision 2030 goal of 200 MTPA cargo by 2030.
Focus on Northeast Development
₹5,000 Crore Roadmap for Growth
A ₹5,000 crore investment over the next five years will boost inland waterways in the Northeast. On National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra), four permanent terminals at Dhubri, Jogighopa, Pandu, and Bogibeel, and 13 floating terminals are being upgraded. A ₹208 crore ship repair facility at Pandu and a ₹180 crore alternative road are set for completion by 2026 and 2025, respectively. On National Waterway-16 (Barak), terminals at Karimganj and Badarpur are operational, while National Waterway-31 (Dhansiri) supports industrial expansion. These efforts enhance regional trade and connectivity.
Key Infrastructure Projects
| Waterway | Projects | Investment | Completion Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| NW-1 (Ganga) | Multi-modal terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj, Haldia | Part of ₹1,400 crore | Ongoing |
| NW-2 (Brahmaputra) | Terminals at Dhubri, Jogighopa, Pandu, Bogibeel | ₹208 crore (ship repair) | 2026 |
| NW-16 (Barak) | Terminals at Karimganj, Badarpur | Part of ₹5,000 crore | Operational |
| Regional Grid | 4,067 km corridor via IBP route | ₹32.2 MMTPA potential | 2033 |
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Aligning with Harit Nauka Guidelines
In line with the Harit Nauka Guidelines, the IWAI is promoting green transport through electric catamarans and hydrogen fuel cell-powered vessels. Water metro projects in cities like Guwahati and eco-friendly cruise tourism are being prioritized. These initiatives reduce carbon emissions and align with India’s sustainable development goals, making inland waterways an eco-efficient alternative to road and rail transport.
Boosting River Cruise Tourism
From 3 to 47 Waterways by 2027
India’s river cruise tourism has grown significantly, with 15 cruise circuits across 13 National Waterways in nine states as of 2024-25. The number of luxury cruise vessels increased from three to 25 since 2013-14. By 2027, 51 additional cruise circuits will be developed on 47 National Waterways. World-class terminals are under construction at Kolkata, with feasibility studies for Varanasi and Guwahati by IIT Madras. These efforts promote tourism and economic growth.
Relevance for Competitive Exams
A Key Infrastructure Topic
For students preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking, the inland waterways expansion is a critical topic in current affairs and infrastructure development. It reflects India’s focus on logistics efficiency, sustainable transport, and Northeast connectivity. Questions may cover the National Waterways Act, 2016, Maritime India Vision 2030, or the ₹5,000 crore Northeast roadmap. Understanding related concepts like green shipping and regional trade is essential for prelims and mains.
Key Highlights of Inland Waterways Expansion
- Event Date: Announced on May 26, 2025, in Mumbai.
- Target: 47 new National Waterways operational by 2027.
- Cargo Goal: 156 MTPA by March 2026, aligning with Maritime India Vision 2030.
- Northeast Investment: ₹5,000 crore roadmap over five years.
- Green Initiatives: Electric catamarans and hydrogen-powered vessels under Harit Nauka Guidelines.
- Tourism Growth: 51 new cruise circuits on 47 NWs by 2027, with terminals at Kolkata, Varanasi, and Guwahati.