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Rajasthan CM Directs IWAI for Detailed Report on Jawai-Luni-Kutch Waterway

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has directed authorities to prepare a detailed report for the development of National Waterway-48, connecting the Jawai-Luni basin to the Rann of Kutch. He emphasized that providing waterway connectivity for cargo is a top state priority to benefit local industries and traders. The project, following an MoU signed in 2025, is expected to facilitate the transport of petrochemicals, minerals, and other goods to the Arabian Sea. Its operationalization is seen as a foundation for the state's holistic development by boosting trade and cutting transportation costs.

Key Points: Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma Reviews National Waterway-48 Project

  • CM directs detailed project report
  • Aims to boost cargo transport and exports
  • Project to connect Rajasthan to Arabian Sea
  • Expected to significantly reduce logistics costs
2 min read

Rajathan CM Bhajanlal Sharma holds key meeting regarding National Waterway-48, directs IWAI to submit detailed report

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma directs IWAI & IIT Madras to prepare a detailed technical and financial report for the Jawai-Luni-Rann of Kutch National Waterway.

"this National Waterway could serve as a robust foundation for the holistic development of the state - Bhajanlal Sharma"

Jaipur, April 3

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Friday issued directives to prepare a detailed report for the realisation of the Jawai-Luni-Rann of Kutch National Waterway.

He said that providing waterway connectivity for cargo transport and exports to industries within the state is one of the State Government's top priorities.

As per the Chief Minister's office release, Sharma was presiding over a meeting held at the Chief Minister's Office on Friday concerning National Waterway-48.

The Chief Minister directed the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and IIT Madras to assess the technical and financial aspects of this project, as well as to prepare a comparative study report regarding the estimated vessel traffic.

It is noteworthy that, under the Chief Minister's guidance, the State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IWAI regarding NW-48 on October 27, 2025. Following this, Professor K. Murali of IIT Madras delivered a detailed presentation regarding the preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for this initiative, a release said.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister remarked that once this National Waterway becomes operational, industries and traders within the state, as well as those in neighbouring states, will benefit from seamless cargo transportation.

He emphasised that this National Waterway could serve as a robust foundation for the holistic development of the state.

Furthermore, it is expected to prove instrumental in boosting trade activities and significantly reducing the cost of cargo transportation.

As per the release, with the operationalisation of NW-48 in the state, the uninterrupted movement of cargo to the Arabian Sea via the Rann of Kutch will become a reality. Passing through Rajasthan and Gujarat, this National Waterway will facilitate the transportation of various export products, including petrochemicals, minerals, cement, chemicals, and industrial goods.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While the idea sounds good, I have concerns. Water is already scarce in Rajasthan. Will this project involve diverting water from the Jawai and Luni rivers? We need to ensure it doesn't affect drinking water and agriculture for local communities. The detailed report must address this.
R
Rohit P
Finally, some forward-thinking infrastructure! Reducing cargo transport costs will make our industries in Rajasthan more competitive. The link to Gujarat's ports is crucial. Hope they also consider the environmental impact on the Rann of Kutch ecosystem.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see IIT Madras involved. Their technical expertise will be vital. The key will be execution - we've seen many grand announcements that get stuck. Hope this one has clear timelines and accountability.
V
Vikram M
As someone from a business family in Jodhpur, this is excellent news! Transporting goods by water is much cheaper than road. If implemented well, it can bring new industries and jobs to the region. Jai Rajasthan! 🇮🇳
M
Michael C
The comparative study on vessel traffic is a smart move. Need to ensure there's enough projected cargo to make this financially viable. Public money should be spent wisely. Good to see a focus on detailed reports before jumping in.

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