Inland waterways carry a record 145.5 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25
India's inland waterways moved a record 145.5 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, up from 18.1 million tonnes in FY 2013-14, the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry said on 24 April 2025.
Summary
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) reported a record cargo movement of 145.5 million tonnes on inland waterways in FY 2024-25, up from 18.1 million tonnes in FY 2013-14, a CAGR of 20.86%. The number of National Waterways rose from 5 to 111, and operational length grew from 2,716 km (2014-15) to 4,894 km (2023-24). The Jalvahak Scheme, with a budget of ₹95.42 crore, offers cargo owners a 35% operating cost incentive and scheduled services on NW-1, NW-2 and NW-16. India aims to raise the modal share of inland water transport from 2% to 5%, with traffic of 200+ million tonnes by 2030 and 500+ million tonnes by 2047 under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision.
Key facts
- FY 2024-25 cargo
- 145.5 million tonnes (record)
- FY 2013-14
- 18.1 million tonnes; CAGR 20.86%
- National Waterways
- 5 to 111
- Jalvahak Scheme
- ₹95.42 crore; 35% operating cost incentive
- Targets
- Modal share 2% to 5%; 200+ MMT by 2030, 500+ MMT by 2047
Practice MCQs 3 questions
How much cargo moved on India's inland waterways in FY 2024-25, a record?
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Correct answer: D — 145.5 million tonnes
Inland waterways moved a record 145.5 million tonnes in FY 2024-25, up from 18.1 million tonnes in FY 2013-14.
Consider the following about India's inland waterways: 1. The number of National Waterways increased from 5 to 111. 2. The Jalvahak Scheme offers cargo owners a 35% operating cost incentive. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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Correct answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Both are correct, as per the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry release.
India aims to raise the modal share of inland water transport from 2% to what level?
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Correct answer: B — 5%
India aims to increase the modal share of inland water transport from 2% to 5%.