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Key Points

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has opened a new office in Srinagar to oversee river navigation projects in Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative includes developing floating jetties, dredging, and navigation aids across three key rivers. This move aims to enhance transport efficiency and promote eco-tourism in the region. The project is part of the Modi government's broader push to utilize waterways for economic growth.

Key Points: IWAI Opens Srinagar Office to Boost J-K Waterway Infrastructure

  • IWAI signs MoU for 3 J-K national waterways
  • Plans floating jetties at 10 locations
  • Aims to boost eco-tourism and local economy
  • Dredging and navigation aids for safer vessel movement
2 min read

IWAI sets up its new office in Srinagar, launches initiatives to develop river navigation infrastructure in J-K

IWAI launches river navigation projects in J-K, including floating jetties and dredging, to enhance transport and eco-tourism under Modi govt.

"IWAI is working towards utilizing the immense potential of rivers across the country. – Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways"

New Delhi, May 14

In a move that is set to strengthen the Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways sets up its new office in Srinagar's Transport Bhawan. The office space has been provided by the Jammu and Kashmir government.

The office will be central to all the IWT works being undertaken by the Authority in the region and will be functional starting Tuesday.

IWAI has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to develop river navigation infrastructure in three national waterways in the Union Territory like NW-26 (River Chenab), NW-49 (River Jhelum), NW-84 (River Ravi). The Authority will now start the development works under the framework of the MoU, as per the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

These works include setting up of floating jetties at ten locations in Jammu and Kashmir, development of navigational fairway by dredging wherever required, night navigational aids and regular hydrographic surveys for safe plying of vessels in these waterways.

Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the able guidance of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI has made several infrastructural interventions to develop waterways as a robust engine of growth.

With proactive steps like developing IWT terminals and related infrastructure, IWAI is working towards utilizing the immense potential of rivers across the country. The partnership between IWAI and Jammu and Kashmir government is a significant step that promises to promote eco-tourism in the union territory while also stimulating local economy.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is a fantastic initiative! Developing river navigation in J&K will boost tourism and create local jobs. The Chenab and Jhelum rivers have so much potential. Hope they maintain ecological balance while developing infrastructure. 🙏
P
Priya M.
Good move but implementation is key. We've seen many projects announced for J&K that never get completed. Hope this one gets proper funding and monitoring. The floating jetties could be game-changers for local businesses if done right.
A
Amit S.
Finally some development focus on our beautiful rivers! 🎋 The Jhelum river cruise could become as famous as Kerala's backwaters. But please ensure local communities benefit directly, not just big tourism operators.
S
Sunita R.
While I appreciate the development, I hope they conduct proper environmental impact studies. Our Himalayan rivers are already under stress. Development shouldn't come at the cost of ecology. Balance is crucial.
V
Vikram J.
This will be a big boost for Kashmir's economy! Better connectivity means more tourists and trade opportunities. The government should also train local youth in water transport operations to create sustainable employment.
N
Neha T.
As someone who has visited Kashmir multiple times, I can say water transport will add a wonderful dimension to tourism. But please maintain the pristine beauty of these rivers - no plastic pollution or over-commercialization!

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