Maritime India Vision 2030 has envisioned a sustainable maritime sector and vibrant blue economy for India. To further harness this untapped sector, the Uttar Pradesh Government has recently expedited its process to form Uttar Pradesh Inland Waterways Authority.
Potential and scope of UP Inland Waterways Authority
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in one of his recent review meetings discussed the formation of UP Inland Waterways Authority on similar lines of Inland Waterways Authority of India, that was formed in 1986. This body will regulate all activities relating to inland water transport and tourism. It is also set to ensure compliance with environmental and safety laws related to hydrographic survey and investigation for better development and better use of waterways.
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Some of the major rivers like Ganga, Ghagra, Gomti, Yamuna, Son, Ken,Chambal, Betwa, Gandak and Ramganga make their way through Uttar Pradesh. This inundation makes up a centre zone for utilising this resource for economical and people-friendly means.
Scientific research will be conducted by the newly formed authority to determine the catchment areas in context of proper utilisation and regulation of waterways of the rivers of UP. Dredging activities would play an important role for the uninterrupted flow and establishment of infrastructural facilities for inland water transport.
After the opening of National Waterway-1 in 1986, which is from Haldia in West Bengal to Allahabad in UP on Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system. The IWAI has been carrying out various developmental works. To fulfil which in November last year, Yogi Adityanath along with Union Minister Sarbanand Sonowal launched seven community jetties to boost water connectivity between Varanasi and bordering districts like Chandauli, Ghazipur and Ballia.
The integration of water transport with other modes of transport is another area that will be explored by the Inland Waterways authority. Public-private partnership and private partnership would also be encouraged.
Rivers flowing through UP have a great potential for water transport due to their large catchment basin. The success of Kochi Water Metro is a great example of how waterways can be fuel-efficient, cost effective and environmental-friendly means of transport. With a vision to be carbon neutral by 2070, the PM Gati Shakti – national master plan for multi modal connectivity along with the green ports initiative has already been accelerated with the development of green logistics supply chain in the country.
Now UP has also stepped in making India a “global hub for building green ships” by 2030. The successful launch of Ganga Vilas luxury cruise, running from Varanasi to Dibrugarh has further strengthened the potential of utilising waterways for public transport. It has covered more than 3,200 km across 27 river systems in India and Bangladesh.
Now with the formation of a separate waterways authority for its state, Uttar Pradesh is set to diversify its transportation network and reduce the burden on the road infrastructure.
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