IWAI & J&K: Launching River Cruise Tourism on Three National Waterways

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed an MoU with the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to develop river cruise tourism on three National Waterways in the Union Territory.

The agreement, formalized during Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, aims to boost tourism, create jobs, and drive economic growth. Jammu & Kashmir’s designated national waterways include River Chenab (NW-26), River Jhelum (NW-49), and River Ravi (NW-84).

As part of the MoU, IWAI will establish waterside and landside infrastructure, including ten floating jetties and passenger facilities—two on River Chenab, seven on River Jhelum, and one on River Ravi. The authority will also carry out dredging, install navigational aids, and conduct hydrographic surveys to ensure safe passage.

The J&K government will provide land, streamline approvals, and appoint cruise operators. With an estimated investment of ₹100 crore, this initiative is part of India's broader push to expand river cruise tourism nationwide, from Kashmir to Kerala and Assam to Gujarat.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.