Srinagar, May 14 (KNO): Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo today reviewed the progress and future roadmap for development of inland water transport infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir during a high-level meeting held to assess the initiatives being undertaken by the Transport Department in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The meeting focused on the promotion of sustainable, eco-friendly and modern water transport systems across major rivers of the Union Territory, with special emphasis on development of cruise tourism, urban water transport facilities and navigational infrastructure on the notified National Waterways in Jammu and Kashmir.
Those who attended includes ACS, PWD; Chairperson, IWAI; Secretary, Transport Department; Transport Commissioner; other officers from IWAI; Representatives from line departments and senior officers from the Transport Department.
The Chief Secretary reviewed the issues requiring inter-departmental coordination including removal of coffer dams under bridges, raising of HT and LT power lines, provision of electricity and water connections at terminals, construction of connecting roads, sewage treatment facilities at key ghats and permissions related to tree cutting and construction activities.
Emphasising the immense tourism, economic and environmental potential of inland waterways in Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Secretary directed the concerned departments to work in close coordination with IWAI for timely execution of all components of the project. He stressed that development of modern water transport infrastructure would not only provide a sustainable mode of transportation but also significantly enhance tourism potential, generate employment opportunities and create new avenues for economic activity along riverfronts across the Union Territory.
He further underscored the need for ensuring seamless integration of water transport facilities with tourism infrastructure while maintaining ecological sensitivity and preserving the natural character of rivers and surrounding landscapes.
During the presentation made by Chairperson, IWAI, Sunil Paliwal it was elucidated that significant progress has been achieved on the development of National Waterway-49 on river Jhelum, where a river cruise corridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake spanning nearly 76 kilometres is being developed.
It was further informed that construction of eight floating jetties along the Jhelum corridor is underway and is expected to be completed by July 2026. The development of associated onshore infrastructure is targeted for completion by July 2027, while installation of navigational aids is scheduled to be completed by July 2026. Fairway maintenance along the river stretch is being carried out jointly by IWAI and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir through deployment of dredgers to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation.
The meeting was informed that the procurement of ten hybrid electric boats with a carrying capacity of 20 passengers each is being processed by IWAI, with bids presently under evaluation. The contract is likely to be awarded by May 2026, while delivery of the vessels is expected by March 2027.
Reviewing the interventions being undertaken in the Jammu region, the Chief Secretary was informed that cruise tourism infrastructure is also being developed on river Chenab under National Waterway-26. A nine-kilometre river cruise stretch from Reasi to Akhnoor Fort is proposed, where construction of two jetties has already been awarded and is expected to be completed by July 2026.
Moreover development of onshore facilities has been entrusted to Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL), with preparation of Detailed Project Report presently underway and expected to be completed by June 2026. The meeting was informed that adequate water depth is available throughout the year for cruise operations in the proposed stretch.
Similarly, under National Waterway-84 on river Ravi, a fifteen-kilometre river cruise corridor is being developed at Sohar in Jammu district. Construction of jetty has already been awarded and is likely to be completed by July 2026. DPR preparation for onshore facilities is also in progress through IPRCL and expected to be finalised by June 2026, while navigational aids are proposed to be tendered by July 2026 and completed by December 2026.
The presentation also highlighted the status of several enabling interventions necessary for smooth navigation and operation of inland waterways. It was informed that eleven land parcels required for various components of the project have been identified, with approvals and transfer formalities at different stages of completion—(KNO)