The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the UP Inland Waterways Authority. This collaboration aims to develop and regulate inland waterways in Uttar Pradesh, enhancing transportation efficiency and fostering economic growth.
Under this agreement, IRS will assist the Uttar Pradesh government in formulating the UP Inland Waterways Authority and developing relevant rules based on the IWAI Act 2021 and IWAI Rules 2022. IRS will also provide technical support to the newly formed authority, ensuring the implementation of best practices for safety and green initiatives in compliance with the latest national and international requirements. Additionally, IRS will help identify upscaling opportunities for development officials and other stakeholders, contributing to skill enhancement and capacity building.
This partnership marks a significant step towards sustainable development and efficient utilisation of Uttar Pradesh’s inland waterways. By enhancing connectivity and stimulating regional development, the initiative aligns with broader visions of environmental conservation and economic growth.
Shri Chandra Bhushan Singh, IAS, Transport Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh, expressed his gratitude towards IRS for their ongoing support. He emphasised that the formation of the authority will boost the local economy by providing low-cost and green transportation options for cargo and passengers through navigable channels. He also highlighted the potential for pilgrimage tourism under the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, and the authority’s role in river conservation and pollution prevention.
Shri Amit Bhatnagar and Shri Devrup Kabi from IRS assured full support and expertise for this initiative, reiterating IRS’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art technical assistance and services to ensure the success of the UP Inland Waterways Authority.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by notable officials including Shri Sanjay Nath Jha, Shri PS Satyarthi, Shri AK Singh, and from IRS, Shri Naveen Kumar.
