In a significant development for the Inland Water Transport (IWT) sector in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, has established a new office at Srinagar’s Transport Bhawan. The premises have been provided by the Jammu and Kashmir government, and the office will be operational from today. It will serve as the hub for all IWT-related projects in the region.

IWAI has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Territory’s government to develop inland navigation infrastructure across three national waterways—NW-26 (River Chenab), NW-49 (River Jhelum), and NW-84 (River Ravi). Development plans include the construction of floating jetties at ten locations, dredging to ensure navigable fairways, installation of night navigation aids, and routine hydrographic surveys for safe vessel operations.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, IWAI has been enhancing inland waterways to serve as engines of sustainable growth. The collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir government aims not only to improve river transport but also to promote eco-tourism and stimulate the local economy.