Union Minister Sonowal Launches National River Traffic and Navigation System

India Unveils NRT&NS for Waterway Safety

On January 11, 2025, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, introduced the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) at the second meeting of the Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) in Kaziranga, Assam. This initiative is designed to improve the safety and efficiency of inland waterway transport throughout India.

Key Developments at the IWDC Meeting

Investment Announcements

The IWDC meeting outlined plans for investments exceeding ₹50,000 crore over the next five years to strengthen infrastructure along national waterways. Additionally, projects worth over ₹1,400 crore were announced across 21 Inland Waterway States.

Policy Initiatives

A major policy initiative, the Riverine Community Development Scheme, was introduced to improve the socio-economic conditions of coastal communities. The scheme focuses on enhancing infrastructure, boosting trade and tourism, and offering skill development training to improve the quality of life for people living along the National Waterways.

Infrastructure Enhancements

The meeting also emphasized plans to establish shipbuilding and ship repair facilities across all National Waterways. This initiative aims to lower logistics costs, boost related industries, and create job opportunities for communities along the waterways.

Performance and Growth in Inland Waterways

Cargo Movement: From April to November 2024, National Waterways have experienced a nearly 7% growth in cargo movement compared to the previous year, reflecting a positive trend in inland waterway transport.

Cruise Tourism: The cruise tourism sector has seen substantial growth, with the number of river cruise vessels rising from 3 in 2013-14 to 25 in 2023-24. The newly launched ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ aims to promote cruise tourism by developing 10 sea cruise terminals, 100 river cruise terminals, and five marinas over the next five years.

Regional Developments

In Andhra Pradesh, the Union Minister revealed plans to set up six floating steel jetties along the Godavari River (NW 4) at sites such as Gandipochamma Temple, Pochavaram, and Perantapalli village. A feasibility study for the Penna River (NW 79) was also announced, along with the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for NW 4 to collect further development inputs.

In Conclusion

The introduction of the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) marks a significant step toward modernizing India's inland waterway transport. With substantial investments, new policy initiatives, and infrastructure enhancements, the government aims to boost trade, improve logistics efficiency, and create employment opportunities.

The growth in cargo movement and cruise tourism further highlights the sector’s potential. As regional developments continue, India’s inland waterways are set to become a more sustainable and competitive mode of transport, benefiting local communities and the national economy.