Jammu Kashmir Poised to Begin Inland Water Transport Services Soon | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir is moving ahead with the development of inland water transport infrastructure across key river systems, with focus on cruise tourism, sustainable mobility and river-based connectivity, officials said during a high-level review chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo.

The meeting assessed ongoing and planned projects being implemented by the Transport Department in coordination with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), including infrastructure development on notified national waterways across the Union Territory.

At the outset, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo reviewed inter-departmental issues affecting execution, including shifting of power lines, removal of temporary structures under bridges, provision of utilities at terminals, road connectivity to ghats, sewage treatment arrangements, and clearances for tree cutting and construction works.

Emphasising coordination among departments, he directed timely execution of all components, noting that inland waterways could emerge as a sustainable transport option while also boosting tourism, generating employment and supporting economic activity along riverfronts.

A detailed presentation by IWAI Chairperson Sunil Paliwal highlighted progress on National Waterway-49 on the River Jhelum, where a 76-kilometre cruise corridor from Pantha Chowk to Wular Lake is being developed. Eight floating jetties are under construction and are expected to be completed by July 2026. Installation of navigational aids is also scheduled for completion by July 2026, while onshore infrastructure is targeted for July 2027. Fairway maintenance is being undertaken jointly through dredging operations to ensure navigability.

The meeting was also informed that procurement of ten hybrid electric boats, each with a capacity of 20 passengers, is under way, with bids under evaluation. The contract is expected to be awarded by May 2026, and delivery is likely by March 2027.

In Jammu division, cruise tourism infrastructure is being developed under National Waterway-26 on the River Chenab, where a nine-kilometre stretch from Reasi to Akhnoor Fort has been proposed. Work on two jetties has already been awarded, with completion expected by July 2026. Preparation of the Detailed Project Report for associated facilities is in progress through the Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited, expected to be completed by June 2026.

Under National Waterway-84 on the River Ravi, a 15-kilometre cruise corridor is planned at Sohar in Jammu district. Jetty construction has been awarded and is likely to be completed by July 2026, while DPR work for onshore facilities is underway. Navigational aids are proposed to be tendered by July 2026 and completed by December 2026.

Officials also reviewed enabling infrastructure requirements, including identification of 11 land parcels for project components, with approvals and transfer processes currently at various stages of completion.