Srinagar, March 11, 2025 – The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has announced a Rs 100 crore investment to enhance inland connectivity across the Chenab (NW-26), Jhelum (NW-49), and Ravi (NW-84) rivers in Jammu and Kashmir. This ambitious initiative, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the IWAI and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, aims to revolutionise transportation and tourism in the region.
The project will focus on developing infrastructure to ensure seamless navigation along these national waterways. A key highlight is the promotion of river cruise tourism, expected to attract both domestic and international visitors to the picturesque Kashmir Valley. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ , emphasising sustainable economic progress.
Officials state that this development will not only enhance tourism but also generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the Union Territory. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of State Shantanu Thakur, and J&K Minister Satish Sharma during the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways’ ‘Chintan Shivir, 2025’ held in Srinagar.
The move builds on the region’s growing tourism appeal, with Jammu and Kashmir already welcoming around 3 million visitors in 2024. By leveraging its natural waterways, the government aims to position the Kashmir Valley as a global travel destination while fostering local prosperity.