The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), led by Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, has introduced a transformative initiative, ‘Jalvahak,’ to enhance cargo movement via inland waterways. This groundbreaking scheme aims to incentivise long-haul cargo transportation along National Waterways 1 (Ganga), 2 (Brahmaputra), and 16 (Barak), marking a significant step towards creating a sustainable, efficient, and economical logistics ecosystem in India.

Inauguration of Fixed Scheduled Cargo Services

The launch event, held at GR Jetty, Kolkata, witnessed the flagging off of three cargo vessels—MV AAI, MV Homi Bhaba, and MV Trishul, accompanied by two dumb barges, Ajay and Dikhu. These vessels signify the commencement of a fixed-schedule cargo service on NW1 and NW2. The routes include Kolkata-Patna-Varanasi-Patna-Kolkata on NW1 and Kolkata-Pandu (Guwahati) via the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) on NW2.

The first trip of this service saw the MV Trishul carrying 1,500 tonnes of cement from Kolkata to Guwahati. Meanwhile, MV AAI transported 1,000 tonnes of gypsum to Patna, and MV Homi Bhaba carried 200 tonnes of coal to Varanasi. This scheduled service aims to provide a reliable, timely, and eco-friendly alternative to conventional transportation modes, such as railways and roadways.

Key Features of the ‘Jalvahak’ Scheme

‘Jalvahak’ incentivises cargo movement of over 300 kilometres through inland waterways. The scheme offers reimbursement of up to 35% of the operating expenditure incurred by cargo owners. This initiative is backed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Inland & Coastal Shipping Limited (ICSL), a Shipping Corporation of India subsidiary.

The scheme’s primary goals include reducing logistics costs, decongesting road and rail networks, and promoting a sustainable transportation model. It is particularly beneficial for industries dealing with bulk and containerized cargo, offering an opportunity to optimize supply chain networks. Initially valid for three years, the scheme is expected to attract major shipping companies, trade bodies, and freight forwarders.

Scheduled Timelines for Cargo Movement

To ensure efficiency, the fixed-schedule sailing service sets clear timelines. On NW1, transit from Kolkata to Patna is expected to take seven days, with an additional five days to reach Varanasi. The entire Kolkata-Varanasi route is estimated at 14 days. For NW2, Kolkata to Pandu via the IBPR is set at 18 days, while the return journey will take 15 days. These precise timelines aim to build confidence in inland waterways as a reliable mode of transportation.

Economic and Environmental Implications

Highlighting the scheme’s significance, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal stated that it aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming transportation infrastructure to boost the economy. “The ‘Jalvahak’ scheme is a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable development and efficient logistics. By 2027, we aim to shift 800 million tonne-kilometers of cargo to waterways with an investment of ₹95.4 crores,” he said.

India’s inland waterways have seen remarkable growth, with cargo volumes increasing from 18.07 million metric tonnes in 2013-14 to 132.89 million metric tonnes in 2023-24—a staggering 700% growth. The government has set ambitious targets of 200 million metric tonnes by 2030 and 500 million metric tonnes by 2047, reflecting its confidence in the sector’s potential.

Strategic Revival of Waterways

India’s inland waterways network spans over 20,000 kilometres, with 17,980 kilometres comprising rivers and 2,256 kilometres consisting of canals. However, the mode remains underutilized compared to global counterparts like the United States, China, and European Union nations. The ‘Jalvahak’ scheme seeks to bridge this gap by unlocking the potential of waterways as a critical component of India’s logistics infrastructure.

Vision for the Future

The event also saw participation from key stakeholders, including Shri Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for MoPSW, and Shri Daya Shankar Singh, Minister of State for Transportation (Independent Charge), Uttar Pradesh. Both emphasized the scheme’s transformative potential for economic growth, particularly in eastern India.

As India revitalizes its waterways, initiatives like ‘Jalvahak’ are poised to play a crucial role in realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) while promoting sustainable and inclusive development. The scheme’s focus on eco-friendly transportation aligns with global efforts to combat climate change, offering a model for other nations to emulate.

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter, Instagram.

"Exciting news! Elets technomedia is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest insights!" Click here!