SRINAGAR: Seeking technical and infrastructural support from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, has urged the Authority to assist the Union Territory in making inland water transport (IWT) a reality at the earliest.
Dulloo made the appeal while chairing a high-level meeting in Srinagar to explore the prospects of introducing IWT across J&K’s major river systems. The meeting was attended by the Chairperson of IWAI, Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti Department, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, and senior officials from the Tourism, Transport and PWD departments.
Highlighting the ecological and logistical benefits of water-based travel, the Chief Secretary said that river transport presents an efficient, environment-friendly, and cost-effective alternative to conventional road systems. He noted that rivers such as the Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi link several key districts, offering a promising foundation for a sustainable public transport network.
Representatives from IWAI presented preliminary survey findings conducted on major river stretches, identifying segments along the Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi as feasible for inland water transport. The survey aligns with the Centre’s broader policy of promoting river navigation as a cleaner and less congested mode of transit.
To initiate services, plans are being considered for deploying electric-powered cruise vessels with a seating capacity of around 20 passengers, operating between designated river terminals.
The Chief Secretary called for a coordinated effort between IWAI and J&K departments to develop the necessary infrastructure, including terminals and waterway access points, with strong emphasis on coordination across Tourism, PWD and Transport sectors. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the alignment of this initiative with local tourism development goals and improving connectivity in underserved areas.
Directing departments to prepare a comprehensive implementation roadmap with strict timelines, Dulloo reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fast-tracking the project, with the dual aim of ecological sustainability and expanded mobility options for citizens and visitors alike.
