Inland water transport (“IWT”) in India holds immense potential as a cost-effective, environmentally friendly alternative for the movement of goods and passengers. With a vast network of approximately 14,500 km of navigable rivers, canals, and backwaters, India’s inland waterways offer a strategic advantage for long-haul transportation. However, IWTs currently constitute a fraction of the overall inter-modal transport mix. In order to create a conducive environment for development of inland water terminals in India, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has recently enacted the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025. This note provides a detailed analysis of these regulations.
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This insight has been authored by Aakanksha Joshi, Lipsa Acharyya and Akshay Dhekane from S&R Associates. They can be reached at [email protected], [email protected] and [email protected], respectively, for any questions. This insight is intended only as a general discussion of issues and is not intended for any solicitation of work. It should not be regarded as legal advice and no legal or business decision should be based on its content.