IWDC 3.0 Plans for Waterways Development

Summary of Key Facts and Developments regarding IWDC 3.0

Purpose and Agenda of IWDC 3.0:

• Date and Location: Scheduled for January 23, 2026, in Kochi, Kerala.
• Objective: To outline the next phase of development for India’s inland waterways, highlighting achievements in the inland water transport (IWT) sector and establishing future perspectives.
• Agenda Includes:
  • Development of a robust urban water transport system.
  • Enhancing cargo transport efficiency.
  • Promoting green vessels for passenger transport.
  • Advancing river cruise tourism.
  • Implementing digital and sustainable practices.

Government Framework and Initiatives:

• Minister Involved: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.
• State Minister: Shantanu Thakur.
• Enhanced State Cooperation: New initiatives to improve collaboration between Center and states in IWT projects will be launched during the meeting.

Current Status of Inland Waterways:

• Network Presence: 111 national waterways across 23 states and four Union Territories; 32 currently operational for cargo and passenger transport.
• Cargo Volume: Over 140 million tons transported annually through inland waterways provides a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly transport option.
• Growth in Transport: National waterways cargo transport increased from 18 million tons in 2013-14 to 145.84 million tons projected for 2024-25. Passenger traffic projected to reach 76.4 million by the same year.

Financial and Investment Data:

• Budget Allocation: The government plans to invest ₹5,000 crore for the development of inland waterways in the Northeast between 2025-2030.
• Current Projects: Projects amounting to ₹1,152 crore are already under implementation.

Importance of IWT Development:

• Regulatory Framework: A review of the current regulatory framework for inland waterways will be conducted, addressing concerns regarding ongoing and proposed projects.
• Promotional Schemes:
  • "Water Carrier" cargo incentive scheme that encourages shifting goods from roads and rails to waterways.
  • "Water Prosperity" scheme promoting strong private sector participation in terminal development and operation.

Upcoming Developments:

• Projects in Focus: The operational launch of the Regional Centre of Excellence (RCOE) in Dibrugarh, completion of ship repair facilities in Pandu, and the promotion of green vessel operations.
• Future Announcements: Anticipated announcements include improvements to transportation access to Bogibeel port and development plans for 85 ghats on regional waterways.

Conclusion:

The IWDC 3.0 session in Kochi aims to act as a significant multi-dimensional platform that evaluates the potential and benefits of inland water transport, with an emphasis on sustainable development and coordinated efforts to enhance the inland water transport sector in India.