Other Waterways

In addition to the existing designated National Waterways, the Government of India, guided by the National Waterways Act, 2016, has identified several Other National Waterways across multiple states to unlock the potential of inland waterways for cargo and passenger movement. These waterways span major rivers, coastal backwaters, and canal systems, and are being considered for development to support multimodal logistics, economic growth, and regional connectivity.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), is advancing feasibility studies, detailed project reports (DPRs), environmental assessments, and pilot works on these waterways. The initiative aligns with the national objective of expanding inland water transport infrastructure beyond existing national waterways, promoting cost-effective and environmentally sustainable transport options.
 

1. Andhra Pradesh National Waterways
Andhra Pradesh has identified multiple potential national waterways originating from river systems such as the Pennar, Tungabhadra, and Vamsadhara rivers, linking interior regions to coastal ports. These waterways are expected to support inland transport and link agricultural and industrial centres to external gateways.

2. Rajasthan National Waterways
Rajasthan has proposed national waterways on perennial/seasonal rivers including the Luni, Sabarmati, Banas, and Chambal rivers, which have the potential to improve regional connectivity and offer transport alternatives in the arid and semi-arid regions of the state. Feasibility assessments are being pursued for navigation viability and infrastructure requirements.

3. Karnataka National Waterways
Karnataka’s proposed waterways leverage river systems such as the Krishna, Cauvery, Sharavathi, and Kali rivers, as well as backwaters and canal networks. Preliminary studies are being advanced to evaluate navigability, fairway development, and integration with existing multimodal transport networks to support movement of goods and passengers.

4. Kerala National Waterways
Kerala’s inland waterways include a dense network of rivers, backwaters, and canals. Proposed candidates for national waterway status include the Kallada, Pamba, Bharathapuzha, and Chaliyar rivers, along with key backwater routes. These waterways hold potential for enhancing tourism, local transport, and cargo movement, pending detailed technical investigations.

5. Maharashtra National Waterways
Maharashtra has identified potential waterways along the Narmada, Tapi, Wardha, Godavari, and other river systems, which can serve as inland corridors for movement of bulk commodities and industrial goods. Feasibility work is underway to assess seasonal flow characteristics and infrastructure needs for sustainable navigation.

6. Odisha National Waterways
In Odisha, rivers such as the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, and Rushikulya are part of the state’s proposed national waterway portfolio. These waterways are being evaluated for inland navigation feasibility, with particular emphasis on linking hinterland economic nodes to coastal ports.

7. Telangana National Waterways
Telangana’s proposed waterways focus on stretches of the Godavari and Krishna rivers, along with associated tributaries and canal systems, to expand inland water connectivity within the state and with neighbouring regions. Technical studies are in progress to determine fairway requirements and interoperability with existing transportation infrastructure.