Sun Apr 27 19:34:08 UTC 2025: **New Regulations Aim to Revitalize India’s Inland Waterways with Private Investment**
KOCHI, INDIA – April 28, 2025 – The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has introduced new regulations designed to boost private sector involvement in the country’s inland waterways transport (IWT) sector. These regulations, specifically the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, aim to unlock the potential of National Waterway-III (NW-III), a 205-km stretch in Kerala, and its extension to Kozhikode.
The move is expected to attract investment in the development of terminals along NW-III, shifting cargo transport from congested roads and railways to waterways. IWAI officials believe this will lead to increased efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the creation of new business opportunities, particularly in tourism. The regulations allow for both permanent and temporary terminals, with private entities, public bodies, and joint ventures eligible to operate them.
However, concerns remain about the waterway’s depth, particularly in sections south of the Thrikunnapuzha lock. While IWAI assures regular dredging maintains the required depth, some stakeholders express skepticism, citing underutilized terminals as evidence of existing issues. The completion of projects like the Thrikunnapuzha lock and the Kovilthottam bridge is seen as crucial to revitalizing NW-III and attracting further investment. Despite challenges, the new regulations represent a significant step towards modernizing India’s inland waterways infrastructure and promoting sustainable transport solutions.
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