Jammu & Kashmir is making significant strides toward building a modern and sustainable inland water transport network, following a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo in collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
The meeting focused on a strategic plan to develop eco-friendly transportation systems across the Union Territory’s major rivers, aimed at enhancing cruise tourism, upgrading urban water infrastructure, and strengthening navigation facilities along designated National Waterways.
Chief Secretary Dulloo addressed key coordination matters between departments, including infrastructure upgrades such as removal of coffer dams beneath bridges, raising power lines, utility connections at terminals, sewage treatment at ghats, and improved road access. He emphasized the importance of seamless collaboration among departments to ensure timely implementation.
Highlighting the long-term economic and environmental benefits, Dulloo noted that the initiative will provide a cleaner, sustainable transport alternative while creating employment opportunities, boosting tourism, and revitalizing riverfront economies across the region.
As part of the development, construction of eight floating jetties along the Jhelum corridor is already in progress and is expected to be completed by July 2026. Installation of navigational systems will align with this timeline, while supporting onshore infrastructure is scheduled for completion by July 2027.
This ambitious initiative marks a transformative step toward greener mobility and stronger tourism-led growth in Jammu & Kashmir.
