Assesses progress achieved in partnership with IWAI
Srinagar : Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo Thursday reviewed the progress and future roadmap for development of inland water transport infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir during a high-level meeting held to assess the initiatives being undertaken by the Transport Department in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The meeting focused on the promotion of sustainable, eco-friendly and modern water transport systems across major rivers of the Union Territory, with special emphasis on development of cruise tourism, urban water transport facilities and navigational infrastructure on the notified National Waterways in Jammu and Kashmir.
Those who attended includes ACS, PWD; Chairperson, IWAI; Secretary, Transport Department; Transport Commissioner; other officers from IWAI; Representatives from line departments and senior officers from the Transport Department.
The Chief Secretary conducted a review focusing on the need for inter-departmental coordination to address various infrastructural issues, including the removal of coffer dams, raising power lines, and establishing essential utilities at terminals. He highlighted the significant tourism, economic, and environmental potential of inland waterways in Jammu and Kashmir, urging departments to collaborate closely with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) for the timely execution of projects. The Chief Secretary emphasized that modern water transport infrastructure would not only provide sustainable transportation but also enhance tourism, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activities along riverfronts. During a presentation by IWAI Chairperson Sunil Paliwal, it was reported that progress is being made on National Waterway-49 on the Jhelum River, with a river cruise corridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake being developed. Construction of eight floating jetties is underway, expected to be completed by July 2026, while associated onshore infrastructure is targeted for completion by July 2027. Navigational aids are also scheduled for installation by July 2026, with fairway maintenance being conducted jointly by IWAI and the Jammu and Kashmir government. The IWAI is in the process of procuring ten hybrid electric boats, each with a capacity of 20 passengers, with contracts anticipated to be awarded by May 2026 and delivery expected by March 2027. In the Jammu region, cruise tourism infrastructure is being developed on the Chenab River under National Waterway-26, with a proposed nine-kilometre cruise stretch from Reasi to Akhnoor Fort. Construction of two jetties has been awarded, with completion expected by July 2026, while onshore facilities are being developed by the Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL). Additionally, under National Waterway-84 on the Ravi River, a fifteen-kilometre cruise corridor is being developed at Sohar, with jetty construction expected to be completed by July 2026. The preparation of Detailed Project Reports for onshore facilities is ongoing, with completion anticipated by June 2026. The presentation also noted that eleven land parcels necessary for the project have been identified, with various approvals and transfer formalities at different stages of completion, ensuring the smooth navigation and operation of inland waterways.
