The inaugural session of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) in Kolkata, led by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, heralded a significant moment for India’s inland waterways. The meeting, attended by key stakeholders and industry leaders, centered on enhancing the sector’s capacity and viability. A substantial commitment of US$ 5.4 billion was unveiled for river cruise tourism development, with US$ 4.2 billion allocated for cruise vessels and US$ 1.2 billion for cruise terminal infrastructure by 2047. An additional investment of US$ 1.8 billion (Rs. 15,200 crore), decided at the Global Maritime India Summit in October 2023, aims to propel inland waterways for cargo trade, targeting a remarkable growth rate exceeding 400%, leading to a volume increase to 500 million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA) by 2047.
Mr. Sonowal, in launching the ‘Harit Nauka’ guidelines and the ‘River Cruise Tourism Roadmap, 2047,’ highlighted India’s remarkable progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The IWDC’s mission aligns with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, emphasizing a modern approach and clear strategy to revitalize neglected waterways. The outlined roadmap aims to expand River Cruise tourism capacity, increase cruise circuits, and enhance infrastructure, signaling a transformative journey toward sustainable development and economic rejuvenation.
