The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the formation of an inland waterways authority to boost water transport and tourism in the state.
The decision to implement the Uttar Pradesh Waterways Authority Rules, 2025, was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath late on Wednesday.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna told reporters on Thursday that the Cabinet discussed 12 proposals, of which 11 were approved.
India has declared 111 national waterways, including 11 in Uttar Pradesh, covering the Ganga and the Yamuna. The establishment of this authority aims to make transportation via waterways more economical and convenient, he said.
The government believes that an efficient water transport system will reduce the pressure on other modes of transport and promote commercial activities, he added.
The authority will be headed by the transport minister or an expert in inland waterways, shipping, navigation, ports and maritime affairs, as nominated by the chief minister.
The vice-chairperson will also be appointed from among subject-matter experts.
Principal secretaries or additional chief secretaries from the departments of finance, public works, tourism and culture, irrigation and water resources, and forest and environment will be ex-officio members.
A representative nominated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India chairperson will also be a member of the body. The Uttar Pradesh transport commissioner will serve as its chief executive officer.
Alongside water transport, the government is focusing on promoting water tourism. Efforts will be made to connect various tourist destinations through waterways, enhancing their appeal, Khanna said.
This initiative is expected to provide visitors a unique experience and strengthen the state’s economy. The move is seen as a crucial step towards expanding water transport and accelerating economic growth in Uttar Pradesh, according to an official statement.
