Srinagar, Oct 08: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today reviewed the status of readiness for development and operationalisation of National Waterways across Jammu & Kashmir, taking comprehensive appraisal of the onshore infrastructure being developed by the Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited (IPRCL) and the river ecosystem and navigation facilities being prepared by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The meeting besides the ACS, PWD and Chairperson, IWAI was attended by the respective Divisional Commissioners; Secretary, Transport; GGM, IPRCL and several other officers from the concerned departments and these agencies.
The Chief Secretary directed the Divisional Commissioners to undertake periodic review of the progress of National Waterway projects in their respective divisions and make occasional on-site visits to facilitate quick resolution of issues and smooth execution of works.
He observed that most of the issues confronting the projects are minor and resolvable and should be addressed promptly by the concerned Divisional Administrations in coordination with the executing agencies.
Dulloo also underscored the tourism and urban mobility potential of the National Waterways, observing that river cruises could emerge as a major attraction for visitors while providing an alternative mode of transport in congested urban areas.
He stressed that development of waterways, should be planned to promote river-based tourism, facilitate passenger movement and help reduce pressure on the road network, while ensuring a safe, attractive and sustainable experience for both tourists and commuters.
He called upon IPRCL and IWAI to work strictly against the prescribed timelines and ensure that the necessary infrastructure, navigation facilities and supporting river ecosystem are put in place so that the waterways are ready for public use by next year.
The Chairperson, IWAI, Sushil Kumar Lohani while speaking in the meeting revealed that three major National Waterways including Jhelum (NW-49), Chenab (NW-26) and Ravi (NW-84) are being targeted for operationalisation during FY 2026–27. He added that the Jhelum National Waterway extends 110 km from Sangam Bridge in Anantnag to Wular Lake; the Chenab waterway covers 53 km between Reasi and Akhnoor; while the Ravi waterway extends 44 km from Chamera Dam to Ranjit Sagar Dam at Basohli.
The Chief Secretary was apprised of the substantial progress achieved on NW-49 (Jhelum), where a 106-km river cruise route from Sangam to Wular Lake has been proposed, covering important locations including Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Maharajganj, Chattabal, Sumbal and Gund Prang.
Moreover it was given out that a work order has been issued for 10 hybrid electric catamarans with a capacity of 20 passengers each, at a cost of ₹66.11 crore. The vessel designs have been approved and construction is underway, with delivery targeted by March 2027.