J&K, IWAI Ink Historic Rs 100 Cr Deal
VINOD BHAT
SRINAGAR, Mar 6: In a groundbreaking move that is set to transform Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism landscape, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has inked a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the J&K government to introduce luxurious river cruise tourism in the region.
The ambitious project, valued at Rs 100 crore, will unlock unparalleled travel experiences along the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi rivers, making J&K a premier cruise destination.
This momentous agreement was signed on the sidelines of the prestigious Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, in the presence of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State Shantanu Thakur. J&K’s Minister of Transport and Tourism, Satish Sharma, along with senior officials including IWAI Chairman Vijay Kumar and MoPSW Secretary T.K. Ramachandran, also witnessed the landmark event.
Luxury Cruises Coming to Jhelum, Chenab & Ravi
Under this transformational initiative, IWAI will establish world-class cruise terminals and floating jetties at ten prime locations across J&K’s three national waterways:
Chenab (NW-26): Floating jetties at Akhnoor and Reasi near Jammu
Jhelum (NW-49): Seven jetties at Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Shah-e-Hamdan, Safa Kadal/Chattabal Shrine, Sumbal Bridge, and Gund Prang (Srinagar & Bandipora)
Ravi (NW-84): A floating jetty at Sohar
Beyond infrastructure, IWAI will also execute dredging operations, install navigational aids, and conduct hydrographic surveys to ensure the seamless operation of cruise services.
A Boon for Tourism & Economy
This mega-project is expected to revolutionize tourism in J&K, bringing a new dimension to adventure, leisure, and pilgrimage travel. The introduction of luxury and budget-friendly cruises will not only attract high-end tourists but also generate employment, boost the local economy, and revive J&K’s historic waterways.
“This is a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir. The introduction of river cruise tourism will elevate the Union Territory to international standards and create endless opportunities for growth,” stated Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
The J&K government has pledged to facilitate land acquisition, clear all statutory requirements, and appoint cruise operators to oversee smooth operations across these iconic waterways.
Vision 2030: Making J&K a Global Tourism Hub
The Narendra Modi-led government has been aggressively expanding India’s inland water transport network, with J&K being the latest jewel in its maritime crown. Following the unprecedented success of the MV Ganga Vilas – the world’s longest river cruise, IWAI is now setting its sights on turning J&K’s pristine rivers into world-class tourism circuits, stretching from Kashmir to Kerala and Assam to Gujarat.
With the first luxury river cruise expected to set sail soon, this visionary project is poised to put J&K on the global tourism map like never before!
