Q1(a). Discuss the efforts and prospects of river waterways in India for tourism and transport.

“Rivers are not only lifelines of our civilization but also corridors of commerce and culture.”

- Nitin Gadkari

India has a vast inland waterway network of over 14,500 km of navigable routes, yet only about 3% of freight movement uses waterways compared to over 20% in developed economies. To harness this potential, the government has taken several key steps.

Efforts Taken:

• National Waterways Act, 2016: Expanded operational waterways from 5 to 111 National Waterways (NWs) for navigation, tourism, and regional development.
• Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Implemented on NW-1 (Ganga, Haldia–Varanasi) with World Bank aid, including terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj, and Haldia.
• Arth Ganga Project (2022): Focuses on livelihood generation and tourism along the Ganga through cruise tourism, floating jetties, and community-based activities.
• River Cruise Tourism: India aims to develop 50+ river cruise routes by 2025; the MV Ganga Vilas (2023) became the world’s longest river cruise (3,200 km, from Varanasi to Dibrugarh).
• Coastal and Inland Connectivity: Under Sagarmala and Harit Nauka initiatives, eco-friendly river transport and solar ferries are promoted.

River transport is 30% cheaper and 60% more fuel-efficient than road transport, reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. It also boosts rural tourism and employment.

With focused infrastructure and sustainable planning, India’s river waterways can evolve into a green transport alternative and a catalyst for heritage tourism and local livelihoods.