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Haldia Multi-Modal Terminal: How IWAI's Strategic Move Boosts Inland Waterways

The Inland Waterways Authority of India has transferred operations of the Haldia Multi-Modal Terminal to IRC Natural Resources, marking a significant step in enhancing inland waterway infrastructure. The terminal, built with World Bank support, has an annual handling capacity of 3.08 million metric tonnes and strategic connectivity to National Highway 41. This move is part of the government's broader Jal Marg Vikas Project to develop National Waterway-1 and improve cargo transportation. The public-private partnership model aims to provide a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for goods transportation, particularly benefiting Northeastern states and Bangladesh.

Key Points: IWAI Hands Haldia Terminal to IRC Natural Resources Boost Logistics

  • IWAI hands over Haldia terminal with 3.08 million metric tonnes annual capacity
  • Terminal connected to National Highway 41 with future rail connectivity
  • 10-year operation contract awarded through open bidding process
  • Project supports government's Jal Marg Vikas Project goals
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IWAI hands over Haldia Multi-Modal Terminal operations to IRC Natural Resources

IWAI transfers Haldia Multi-Modal Terminal to IRC Natural Resources, enhancing inland waterway infrastructure and multimodal logistics efficiency.

"The operationalisation of Haldia MMT is expected to significantly boost cargo movement through inland waterways - IWAI Official Statement"

New Delhi, Oct 17

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has handed over operations of the Haldia Multi-Modal Terminal (MMT) in West Bengal to IRC Natural Resources to enhance inland waterway infrastructure and promote multimodal logistics through public-private partnership (PPP), the government informed on Friday.

Built by IWAI with World Bank support, the terminal has a handling capacity of 3.08 million metric tonnes per annum and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2023, an official statement said.

The statement said that the terminal, strategically located and connected to National Highway 41, will also receive rail connectivity, thereby enhancing its multimodal integration.

IWAI has adopted a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model on an Equip, Operate and Transfer (EOT) basis and awarded a 10-year operation and maintenance contract, which can be extended by five years, following an open bidding process.

IRC Natural Resources has been awarded the contract after submitting the highest bid, quoting a royalty of Rs 105.03 per metric tonne of cargo handled, payable to IWAI.

The operationalisation of Haldia MMT is expected to significantly boost cargo movement through inland waterways, providing a cost-effective, environmentally friendly and faster alternative for transporting goods, particularly to the Northeastern states and Bangladesh.

The handover supports the government's goal of enhancing inland water transport through the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), aimed at developing the 1,390-kilometre National Waterway-1 along the Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

IWAI has undertaken key developmental works under JMVP including fairway maintenance, construction of multi-modal and inter-modal terminals, modern navigational locks and installation of over 60 jetties to support and benefit riverine communities, the statement noted.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Great initiative but I hope the environmental impact is properly monitored. River transport is cleaner than roads, but we need to ensure the Ganga ecosystem isn't harmed. Proper waste management systems must be in place.
R
Rohit P
Finally some progress on inland waterways! This will reduce pressure on our congested highways and railways. The multimodal connectivity with NH-41 and future rail link is smart planning. More such projects needed across India 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
The royalty of ₹105 per tonne seems reasonable. Hope this PPP model brings efficiency and transparency. Private sector involvement should improve service quality and operational standards. Good move for infrastructure development!
V
Vikram M
While the project looks promising, I'm concerned about the implementation timeline. Many infrastructure projects in India face delays. Hope IRC Natural Resources delivers on time and maintains quality standards throughout the contract period.
M
Michael C
The Jal Marg Vikas Project is a game-changer for riverine communities. The 60+ jetties will create employment opportunities and boost local economies. This is sustainable development that benefits both commerce and communities 🙏

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