IWAI takes key decisions related to IWT sector in its Board meeting

By Admin

26 Jun, 2025

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) held its 198th Board Meeting in New Delhi, marking a significant step forward in bolstering the Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector. A series of major decisions were taken, with a special focus on the development of IWT infrastructure and services in the North Eastern Region (NER).

Strengthening IWT in North East India

To catalyze the growth of tourism and cargo movement in Assam, the IWAI Board approved the development of three tourist jetties at Silghat, Bishwanath Ghat, and Guijan, along with a tourist-cum-cargo jetty at Neamati. These facilities are designed to address increasing demand for water-based transportation while enhancing connectivity with regional and national tourist circuits. This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity through improved trade and tourism infrastructure across the NER.

Regional Centre of Excellence in Bogibeel

The Board gave a green signal for the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence (RCoE) at Bogibeel, Dibrugarh. With a training capacity of 5,396 participants, this center will serve as a hub for training, research, and capacity building. It aims to bridge the gap in skilled manpower in the region through certified training programs aligned with the Inland Vessels Act, 2021.

New Infrastructure in Guwahati

Further enhancing the region's IWT ecosystem, IWAI approved the development of a multi-storeyed office complex on a 2,154 sq mtr land parcel at Fancy Bazar, Guwahati, through Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Ltd. (IPRCL). This building will house the IWAI Guwahati Regional Office and the Maritime Skill Development Centre (MSDC), along with other significant departments.

Ship Repair Facility in Patna

In line with the push for expanding infrastructure along National Waterway-1, the Board entrusted NTCPWC, IIT Madras with preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a Ship Repair Facility in Patna, Bihar. The announcement aligns with recent government initiatives to boost IWT on the Ganga.

Development at Balagarh, West Bengal

The Board also approved the establishment of an extended port gate system at Balagarh in West Bengal, to be developed by the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port. This facility will support enhanced cargo handling and logistics operations along the eastern waterways.

Formation of the Indian Waterways Congress

Taking a strategic step for long-term growth, IWAI decided to launch the Indian Waterways Congress, modeled after the Indian Roads Congress. This platform will focus on adopting global best practices, standardization, and deploying advanced technologies. It will facilitate dialogue among key stakeholders, including government agencies, shipping companies, logistics firms, and end-users.

Restructuring IWAI for the Future

Finally, the Board approved a cadre review and restructuring plan prepared by the National Institute of Smart Government. This move aims to equip IWAI to meet the evolving challenges of the IWT sector and help the organization achieve its goals in boosting cargo movement and promoting cruise tourism.

The IWAI Board’s decisions reflect a robust and forward-thinking approach to transforming inland water transport in India. With dedicated efforts in infrastructure development, skill training, and stakeholder engagement, the IWT sector is set to play a vital role in the country’s multimodal logistics ecosystem.