Uttar Pradesh accelerated the expansion of its inland waterways network through MoUs signed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) at India Maritime Week 2025, according to PIB Delhi.
IWAI concluded agreements worth more than ₹6,000 crores (US$ 720 million) to develop and expand the inland waterways network on the Ganga (National Waterway-1), targeting river cruise tourism, ship repair capacity, multimodal connectivity and low-emission transport systems. The authority announced that ₹1,350 crores (US$ 163 million) will be invested to accelerate inland water transport and cruise infrastructure in the state following these signings.
As part of 25 MoUs signed nationwide, Uttar Pradesh secured commitments for expanded operations in Varanasi and along the Ganga corridor.
IWAI reached agreements with Heritage River Journeys Pvt. Ltd. and Alaknanda Cruises to develop and induct new cruise vessels and expand cruise tourism on national waterways, with more than ₹800 crores (US$ 96 million) allocated.
A separate MoU with the Uttar Pradesh government will support construction of a new ship repair facility in Varanasi with a ₹350 crores (US$ 42 million) investment, while two new river cruise terminals will be developed in the city at a cost of ₹200 crores (US$ 24 million).
A ₹100 crores (US$ 12 million) MoU will support electric vessel charging infrastructure aligned with the National Green Shipping Mission. Another initiative worth ₹200 crores (US$ 24 million) will establish a Regional Centre of Excellence in Varanasi for research, skills training and innovation in inland water transport, vessel design and green technologies.
A ₹1,000 crores (US$ 120 million) agreement with Rhenus Logistics will allow induction of modern tug-barges on the Ganga (NW-1) and Brahmaputra (NW-2).
An MoU between IWAI and NTCPWC of IIT Madras will allocate ₹1,500 crores (US$ 180 million) for dredging works supervision on NW-1.
A further ₹1,500 crores (US$ 180 million) initiative under an MoU between IWAI and IPRCL proposes rail connectivity for the Multi-Modal Terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj and Haldia as part of the PM Gati Shakti framework.
