Context: The Centre launched the Jalvahak scheme to enhance long-haul cargo transport via National Waterways 1 (Ganga), 2 (Brahmaputra), and 16 (Barak).
Relevance: GS 2 (Polity & Governance)
Objective
- Promote economical, eco-friendly, and efficient cargo movement to decongest railways and roadways.
Incentives:
- Up to 35% reimbursement of operating costs.
- Encourages hiring vessels owned/operated by government entities.
Validity:
- The scheme is valid for three years.
Operational Details
- Fixed day scheduled sailing services launched from Kolkata to Patna, Varanasi (NW-1), and Guwahati (NW-2) via the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route.
- UltraTech Cement became the first company to use NW-1 for large-scale gypsum transport.
Significance:
- The scheme optimizes supply chains, benefits major shipping companies, and strengthens the waterways’ role in India’s logistics network.
