Srinagar, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir is set to soon witness the launch of Inland Water Transport (IWT) services as Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo reviewed the progress and future roadmap of water transport infrastructure in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The high-level meeting focused on developing sustainable, eco-friendly, and modern water transport systems across major rivers in the Union Territory, including cruise tourism, urban water transport facilities, and navigational infrastructure on notified national waterways.
Officials from the Transport Department, IWAI, and other line departments attended the meeting and discussed key inter-departmental coordination issues such as removal of coffer dams, shifting of power lines, provision of utilities at terminals, construction of connecting roads, sewage treatment facilities, and permissions for construction-related activities.
The Chief Secretary emphasized the immense tourism, economic, and environmental potential of inland waterways in Jammu and Kashmir. He directed departments to ensure close coordination with IWAI for timely execution of all components of the project.
He said that modern water transport systems would not only provide a sustainable mode of travel but also boost tourism, generate employment, and open new economic opportunities along riverfronts across the region.
According to a detailed presentation by IWAI Chairperson Sunil Paliwal, significant progress has been made on National Waterway-49 on the Jhelum river. A 76-km cruise corridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake is being developed, along with floating jetties, navigational aids, and supporting infrastructure.
It was informed that eight floating jetties along the Jhelum corridor are under construction and expected to be completed by July 2026, while onshore infrastructure will be ready by July 2027. Hybrid electric boats are also being procured, with delivery expected by March 2027.
In Jammu region, cruise tourism infrastructure is being developed on the Chenab under National Waterway-26, with a nine-km stretch from Reasi to Akhnoor Fort. Two jetties have been sanctioned and are scheduled for completion by July 2026.
Similarly, under National Waterway-84 on the Ravi river, a 15-km cruise corridor at Sohar in Jammu district is under development, with jetty construction and related infrastructure works progressing on schedule.
The meeting was also informed about enabling interventions, including identification and transfer of land parcels required for the project, which are currently at various stages of approval.
