In a significant move to enhance infrastructure and attract private sector investment, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) has introduced new regulations to streamline processes and promote efficient use of India’s vast waterways network.

The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, formulated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), aim to open new opportunities for private entities to participate in the development of inland waterway terminals, the ministry announced on Friday.

Under the newly introduced National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, any entity, including private players, wishing to develop or operate an inland waterway terminal must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The regulations apply to both existing and new terminals, covering permanent and temporary installations.

Permanent terminals can be operated for their lifetime by the developer, while temporary terminals will be granted an initial five-year term with the option for extensions. The developer and operator will also be responsible for the technical design and construction of the terminal, ensuring it aligns with their business plans and provides sufficient access. These regulations aim to streamline terminal development while encouraging private sector participation.

To simplify procedures and encourage greater participation, IWAI has digitized the terminal application process, creating an online platform that facilitates seamless applications for private, public, and joint ventures. This digital platform is designed to support the government’s vision of sustainable development and improved Ease of Doing Business.

Cargo movement on national waterways has surged from 18 million tonnes to 133 million tonnes in the 2023-24 fiscal year, reflecting the government’s vision of sustainable development and private sector involvement.

This growth is further supported by the recently launched Jalvahak scheme, which aims to incentivize a 17% shift in cargo transport from the current 4700 million tonne kilometres on national waterways.

The scheme is expected to boost private sector participation and expand cargo movement across India’s waterways.