Jammu & Kashmir Introduces New River Cruises And Floating Jetties To Boost Waterway Tourism

Saturday, March 8, 2025

The Jammu & Kashmir administration, in partnership with the Inland Waterways Authority of India, is gearing up to introduce river cruise tourism in the region. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) formalized at the Chintan Shivir event focuses on upgrading infrastructure, including the installation of floating jetties along the Chenab, Jhelum, and Ravi rivers. This initiative is expected to strengthen the local economy while generating new employment opportunities.

The Jammu & Kashmir government is taking significant strides to boost tourism and strengthen the regional economy. In collaboration with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), an agreement has been signed to introduce river cruise tourism. This strategic initiative is expected to enhance the tourism industry while generating new employment opportunities.

Landmark Agreement for River Cruise Tourism

A key Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized during the Chintan Shivir event in Srinagar, marking a crucial step in advancing waterway-based tourism. The signing ceremony was attended by notable officials, including Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, and Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Shantanu Thakur. Other dignitaries present included Shri Satish Sharma, Minister of Food, Civil Supplies, and Transport, Shri T.K. Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, and Shri Vijay Kumar, Chairman of IWAI. This agreement paves the way for infrastructure development, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth in the region.

Expanding River Cruise Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu & Kashmir is home to three of India’s 111 national waterways:

• Chenab River (NW-26)
• Jhelum River (NW-49)
• Ravi River (NW-84)

As part of a nationwide initiative to enhance cruise tourism, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has announced plans to introduce dedicated river cruise circuits in various regions, including J&K. With an estimated investment of ₹100 crore, this transformative project aims to redefine the tourism sector by introducing modern infrastructure and enhanced waterway connectivity.

Key Infrastructure Developments

Under the signed MoU, IWAI will spearhead crucial enhancements to facilitate river cruise operations. The planned developments include:

• Installation of 10 floating jetties for seamless boarding and disembarkation.
• Development of landside facilities, including waiting lounges and passenger amenities.
• Dredging operations to maintain safe and navigable waterways.
• Hydrographic surveys and navigational support to ensure smooth and secure cruise operations.

Strategic Jetty Locations in J&K

The floating jetties will be strategically placed at key points across Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring accessibility for both tourists and local communities. These developments are set to enhance the region’s tourism potential while creating new opportunities for economic growth.

Proposed Jetty Locations for River Cruise Tourism

The project will establish floating jetties at key locations across Jammu & Kashmir to enhance river cruise connectivity:

• Chenab River: Two jetties will be constructed at Akhnoor and Reasi, improving access near Jammu.
• Jhelum River: Seven jetties will be strategically placed at Pantha Chowk, Zero Bridge, Amira Kadal, Shah-e-Hamdan, Safa Kadal, Sumbal Bridge, and Gund Prang, covering important locations in Srinagar and Bandipora.
• Ravi River: A single jetty will be developed at Sohar, facilitating tourism along this waterway.

Jammu & Kashmir Government’s Role

The Jammu & Kashmir administration will be instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Their responsibilities include:

• Allocating land for infrastructure development.
• Securing necessary statutory approvals for smooth execution.
• Appointing cruise operators to manage and run services.
• Coordinating with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to ensure technical support and compliance with operational standards.

This collaborative effort is set to enhance the region’s tourism potential while fostering economic growth and employment opportunities.