Sarbananda Sonowal unveils portal and issues first NoC to spur private investment in jetty, terminal development.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched a digital portal developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to streamline private investment in infrastructure along India’s national waterways. The move coincides with the implementation of the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, aimed at easing entry and operations for private players in inland water transport (IWT).
The new framework allows entities to develop or operate jetties and terminals on any national waterway by obtaining a digital No Objection Certificate (NoC) from IWAI. This applies to both temporary and permanent terminals—new or existing—under a unified structure, promoting ease of doing business and regulatory clarity.
At the launch, the first NoC was issued to Marina India Infrastructure for developing a jetty on the Mandovi River (NW 68) in Goa, involving an investment of ₹8 crore. The facility will accommodate up to 16 yachts and pleasure crafts, supporting the region’s river cruise tourism.
Sonowal highlighted the transformative growth in cargo movement on inland waterways, which rose from 18 million tonnes to 133 million tonnes in FY 2023–24. He emphasized the new regulations and digital interface will drive sustainable infrastructure growth, attract private investment, and help achieve the government’s vision of a modern, inclusive transport ecosystem under the Viksit Bharat mission.
Source: PIB
