image credits: times of india
The Indian government has embarked on an ambitious plan to transform Odisha’s water transport landscape by developing six inland waterways. Announced by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, this initiative aims to boost cargo movement. Executed through the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the project promises to enhance connectivity, and stimulate trade.
What are The Six National Waterways of Odisha?
The six waterways designated as National Waterways (NWs) under this development plan are strategically chosen to leverage Odisha’s extensive river systems. These include Brahmani & Mahanadi Delta and East Coast Canal (NW-5), Baitarni River (NW-14), Birupa River-Badi Genguti-Brahmani River System (NW-22), Buddha Balanga River (NW-23), Mahanadi River (NW-64), and Subarnarekha River (NW-96). Each waterway is being upgraded with modern infrastructure such as ports, terminals, docks, and navigation systems to ensure efficient cargo transport and safe tourism operations.
How Trade will be Fostered through Waterways?
Odisha’s rivers have long been lifelines for its economy, and this project aims to harness their potential further. For instance, NW-5, covering the Brahmani and Mahanadi Delta along with the East Coast Canal, is being developed to facilitate coal evacuation from the Talcher coalfields and connect to the Pankapal Industrial area.
Similarly, the Mahanadi River (NW-64) is being upgraded to a Class-VII standard waterway, capable of supporting vessels with a carrying capacity of 2,000 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT). Navigational aids and passenger jetties at locations like Bahakud-Musadia will also improve ferry services. The Subarnarekha River (NW-96), flowing through Odisha and West Bengal, will support cargo movement while linking key tourist spots.
Utilising River Cruise Tourism for Exploring Odisha’s Treasures
Beyond trade, the waterways are set to become gateways to Odisha’s tourism potential. The Baitarni River (NW-14) will feature a jetty near the Bhitarkanika Forest, a biodiversity hotspot known for its mangroves and wildlife. Similarly, the Birupa River-Badi Genguti-Brahmani River System (NW-22) will connect the “Diamond Triangle” of Ratnagiri, Udayagiri, and Lalitgiri, which are ancient Buddhist sites of immense historical significance.
The Buddha Balanga River (NW-23) will link Hidden Beach (Chandipur) to Balasore city, providing a serene journey through Odisha’s coastal charm. Meanwhile, the Subarnarekha River (NW-96) will feature floating jetties connecting Panteighat to the Bichitrapur Mangroves, Bhusandeswara Temple which is home to Asia’s largest Shivlingam. These initiatives aim to attract both domestic and international tourists.
Why Odisha’s Rivers are Considered its Lifeline for Growth?
Odisha is blessed with a network of rivers that have shaped its history and economy. The Mahanadi, often called the “lifeline of Odisha,” supports agriculture, industry, and now, modern transport. The Brahmani and Baitarni rivers, flowing through the state’s mineral-rich regions, are vital for industrial growth, while the Subarnarekha enhances cross-border connectivity. By developing these waterways, the government is not only improving logistics but also ensuring sustainable use of these natural resources, benefiting local communities and businesses alike.
While the six National Waterways form the core of this initiative, the development of Chilika Lake which is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, remains under the Odisha government’s purview. Shri Sonowal noted that the IWAI is ready to offer technical assistance if the state seeks support.
The development of these inland waterways marks a significant step toward modernizing Odisha’s infrastructure. By integrating cargo transport with river cruise tourism, the initiative promises economic growth, and job creation.
