Govt. Launches Digital Portal for National Waterways
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Mr Sarbananda Sonowal recently launched a dedicated digital portal developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to invite private investment in infrastructure development on National Waterways.
With a ceremonial click, the Minister formally inaugurated the initiative, which is aimed at facilitating ease of doing business (EODB) and encouraging private investment in inland water transport (IWT) in the country.
The launch follows the introduction of the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, which lays out a framework for private players to invest in the construction and operation of jetties and terminals across India’s national waterways network.
As per the newly notified National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, any entity — including private players — can now develop or operate an inland waterway terminal on a National Waterway by securing a ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NoC) from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The regulations apply to both existing and new terminals, whether permanent or temporary. Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said, “By enabling private participation in developing jetties and terminals, we are going to unlock immense potential for sustainable infrastructure growth in the inland waterways transportation.
This initiative not only simplifies regulatory procedures but also reflects our commitment to Ease of Doing Business (EODB), economic empowerment, and job creation.
It paves the way for a modern, efficient, economical and inclusive inland water transport system powering the nation towards Viksit Bharat.”
The Union Minister informed that IWAI has transformed inland waterways into a powerful engine of economic growth.
The new National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 will further accelerate this momentum by encouraging private investment, improving procedural efficiency, & advancing sustainable, digitally driven development.”
