India’s Rivers: Transforming into Highways of Progress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently emphasized the critical role of India’s rivers in the nation’s development, stating, “India’s rivers are not just symbols of heritage, they are highways of progress!” Highlighting both heritage and economic potential, the Prime Minister called attention to the revival of traditional waterways as vital corridors for trade, tourism, and sustainable growth.

Image from DD News

Reviving Traditional Waterways

Historically, India’s rivers served as the primary channels for trade, connecting distant regions and transporting goods such as grain, salt, and other essentials. Before the extensive road and rail networks, rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Yamuna were lifelines of commerce. Today, the government, through the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), is reinvigorating these historic routes to meet modern logistics and transportation needs.

This revival is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on road transport, lower carbon emissions, and provide cost-effective alternatives for moving goods. The emphasis is on integrating waterways into India’s multimodal transport network, creating a sustainable and efficient logistics framework that supports both domestic and international trade.

Expansion and Modernization of Waterways

India has witnessed significant growth in its navigable waterways. Currently, the country has over 14,500 kilometers of navigable rivers, with 111 declared national waterways compared to just five in 2014. Of these, 32 waterways are already operational, demonstrating the government’s commitment to large-scale infrastructure development.

To ensure smooth and safe navigation, infrastructure improvements include the construction of modern terminals, jetties, and cargo handling facilities. These upgrades not only enhance trade efficiency but also strengthen India’s position as a hub for inland water transport in the region.

Surge in Cargo Movement

The revival of inland waterways has led to a remarkable increase in cargo transport. From transporting just 18 million tonnes in 2013–14, the volume has surged to 145 million tonnes in 2024–25. Looking ahead, the government has set ambitious targets of 200 million tonnes by 2030 and 250 million tonnes by 2047, reflecting a long-term vision for waterways as a backbone of India’s logistics sector.

This growth also complements India’s sustainability goals, as waterways are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to road and rail transport. By channeling more cargo through rivers, the nation is simultaneously reducing carbon emissions and easing road congestion.

Boost to River Tourism

Beyond logistics, the development of waterways has catalyzed river tourism. India now hosts 25 cruise vessels operating across 13 major waterways, compared to just five a decade ago. Cruise tourism has expanded in regions such as the Kerala backwaters, the Ganga, and the Brahmaputra, with upgraded amenities, electric shore power, and round-the-clock navigation systems ensuring safe and sustainable operations.

River tourism not only generates revenue but also fosters cultural exchange and regional development, creating livelihoods for communities living along these waterways. The integration of tourism with commerce exemplifies India’s holistic approach to river development.

Strategic Investments in Maritime Infrastructure

To realize this vision, the government plans to invest around ₹80 lakh crore in the maritime sector by 2047. This investment focuses on expanding port capacities, modernizing terminals, and strengthening the inland water transport network. By integrating rivers into India’s broader economic and transport strategy, the country aims to enhance trade competitiveness while ensuring sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The MGMM Outlook

India’s rivers, long celebrated for their cultural and spiritual significance, are now emerging as vital arteries of economic growth and sustainable development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the revival of traditional waterways as a key initiative for enhancing trade, tourism, and regional connectivity. Historically serving as lifelines of commerce, rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Yamuna are being modernized under the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to support contemporary logistics needs. By integrating waterways into India’s multimodal transport network, the government aims to reduce reliance on road transport, lower carbon emissions, and provide cost-effective alternatives for moving goods, strengthening the country’s logistics and trade capabilities.

The expansion of navigable rivers has already yielded impressive results, with cargo movement rising from 18 million tonnes in 2013–14 to 145 million tonnes in 2024–25, alongside a growing river tourism sector featuring 25 cruise vessels across 13 waterways. Infrastructure improvements, including modern terminals and jetties, have enhanced safety and efficiency, while investments in the maritime sector aim to position India as a regional hub for inland water transport. Beyond commerce, river tourism is fostering cultural exchange and local livelihoods, reflecting a holistic approach to economic growth. By blending heritage with innovation, India’s river development strategy emphasizes sustainability, regional development, and long-term economic resilience.

(Sources: DD News, Economic Times)