India Boosts Waterways: Cargo Traffic Surges Eightfold

India is accelerating its inland waterways development, anticipating having over 50 national waterways operational for cargo and passenger traffic well ahead of the 2047 Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision target. This strategic expansion is driven by a remarkable eightfold increase in cargo traffic on national waterways, reaching 218 million tonnes (mt) in FY26, surpassing earlier projections. The government is set to invest over ₹10,000 crore to develop more than a dozen new national waterways over the next five to 10 years.

The focus is shifting towards developing these waterways as commercially viable economic corridors, integrating them with industrial clusters, freight terminals, ports, roads, and railways. Currently, 32 out of 111 declared national waterways are operational, handling significant cargo. Supporting infrastructure, like ship repair facilities and freight villages, is also under development to enhance connectivity and operational efficiency.

Simultaneously, the passenger segment is growing, with 17 river cruise circuits operational. Incentives are being offered to encourage cargo owners to shift freight to inland waterways. Private investment is expected to be drawn by the waterways' cost advantage and assured revenue streams, supported by new regulations and potential viability-gap funding for strategic corridors.