New Delhi, Feb 28: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has introduced the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, making it mandatory for entities developing or operating inland waterway terminals on national waterways to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
As per an official statement released on Friday, the new regulations will apply to both existing and new terminals, covering both permanent and temporary structures. Developers and operators will be solely responsible for the technical design and construction, ensuring the facilities align with their business plans while maintaining adequate accessibility.
Key Highlights of the Regulations:
- Mandatory NOC Requirement: Entities planning to set up inland waterway terminals must secure approval from IWAI before commencing operations.
- Lifelong Operation for Permanent Terminals: Permanent terminals can be maintained indefinitely by operators.
- Five-Year Term for Temporary Terminals: Temporary terminals will initially have a five-year operational period, with options for extensions.
- Streamlined Digital Process: IWAI is developing an online portal to digitize and streamline the application process, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.
- Boost to Ease of Doing Business: The portal aims to simplify submissions and progress tracking for developers, aligning with the government’s vision of digitization and regulatory ease.
Encouraging Private Participation in Waterway Infrastructure
With these regulations, IWAI seeks to promote greater private sector involvement in inland waterway infrastructure development. The policy framework will allow private, public, and joint venture entities to establish and operate jetties and terminals on national waterways.By fostering investment in inland waterways, the move is expected to enhance logistical efficiency, boost trade, and contribute to economic growth. The increased participation of private players in terminal development is set to significantly expand the sector, supporting India’s broader infrastructure and transportation goals.
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