The development of National Waterways to boost internal trade and industry is on a fast track mode. In the latest development, the Centre has written to the States asking them to participate in developing the National Waterways to create the network on the lines of the National Highways or the rail network. In a letter to the States, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has asked the State officials to begin classifying the rivers which will be used for trade and navigation purposes.
The IWAI has asked the States to start ground work to ensure that minimum horizontal and vertical clearance is maintained for navigation. It has also asked the States to float tenders for appointing consultants to conduct feasibility studies of the rivers. “Work actually picked pace after the Cabinet gave its approval to declare 101 rivers as part of the National Waterway network. Work is also underway to boost trade activity on the five existing waterways,” said an official from the Ministry of Shipping.
“We have asked the States to give out bids to hire consultants who can study the rivers to design the waterways. Most of these rivers, which have so far been mostly ornamental, will be developed for navigation. A lot of work namely dredging, barge constructions etc will be needed,” he said. In order to facilitate movement of cargo ships of carrying capacity up to 1,500 tonnes, a draft of 2.5 metres has to be made available on the waterways.
The Centre has set itself a year-end deadline for the detailed project reports to come in. “Of the existing rivers, 20 per cent can be completely used as they have adequate depth and continued flow of water all through the year. For about 40 per cent, small distance and weather specific navigation can be undertaken and for the rest 40 per cent, detailed research is required,” said an official.
“State participation is a must, as terminals have to be built. The ships have to dock and hence, a lot of construction activity even on land has to happen. For the project to move well, States have to be active partners,” he said. The IWAI is also planning to train States in tendering processes to ensure parity in the quality of consultants, which will be engaged in the preparation of detailed project reports.