Reviving Ancient Indian Waterways: A Greener and Cheaper Mode of Logistics

India, with its rich history and natural resources, has immense potential for utilizing waterways as a crucial mode of transportation. The potential for this cheaper and greener mode of logistics has only recently been recognized, particularly with the revival of the Ganges River as a waterway. This transformation not only aims to reduce the country's reliance on congested road and rail networks but also to enhance trade efficiency and reduce logistics costs.

The Significance of Waterways in Modern India

Over the decades, inland water transport has played a significant role in many countries worldwide. Despite its advantages, India has yet to fully harness this mode of transportation. The current logistical scenario is characterized by high costs and inefficiencies, with logistics costs accounting for as much as 18 percent of the country's GDP. Until recently, the Ganges river, once a bustling waterway, fell into disuse with the advent of railways.

The Revival of Ganga Waterway: National Waterway 1 (NW1)

However, the Government of India is now making a concerted effort to bring the Ganga river back to life. Known as National Waterway 1 (NW1), this initiative aims to ferry cargo from the eastern seaport of Haldia to Varanasi, a journey of approximately 1360 kilometers. The project holds immense potential to become a key logistics artery for northern India. The waterway traverses a densely populated region that generates about 370 million tonnes of freight annually, yet only a fraction of this – around 5 million tonnes – currently travels by water.

Logistical Benefits of Reviving Ganga Waterway

The development of NW1 will significantly enhance the movement of cargo. Currently, goods from the Gangetic states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh travel long and circuitous land routes to reach seaports like Mumbai and Kandla, further north. With the new waterway, these regions can more efficiently direct some of their freight to the much closer port of Kolkata, thereby reducing logistical uncertainties and costs. The World Bank has provided a loan of 375 million dollars to support the project, making it one of the most promising initiatives in the region.

Other Projects and Initiatives

To ensure the project's success, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has adopted a comprehensive approach. The Capacity Augmentation of National Waterway 1 Project will establish six multi-modal freight terminals at strategic locations along the route, including Varanasi, Ghazipur, Kalughat, Sahibgunj, Triveni, and Haldia. These terminals and additional roll-on-roll-off (RO-RO) crossings will facilitate easier transfer of goods between land and water transport modes. Furthermore, the construction of a vessel repair and maintenance facility at Doriganj will support the sustainable operation of the waterway.

Modernization and Navigation Solutions

In addition to infrastructure development, the project includes the modernization of the Farakka lock. This improvement will significantly enhance the navigability of the river by allowing two-way traffic and reducing wait times. An advanced River Information System (RIS) will be implemented to improve navigation safety and efficiency. Detailed protocols for handling emergencies, including the management of oil spills, will also be put in place to ensure the safety of the waterway.

Adapting to the Natural Environment

Recognizing the Ganges' unique ecological and cultural importance, the IWAI has adopted a principle of ‘working with nature’ during the planning and execution of the project. Unlike many large-scale dredging projects, the Ganga is a seasonal river that requires navigable channels of varying depths. The project ensures that only the minimum necessary dredging is carried out, using modern and less intrusive techniques such as water injection to manage sediment deposits.

Conservation of Biodiversity

The project also places a strong emphasis on the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. The establishment of the Kashi Turtle Sanctuary in Varanasi and the Vikramshila Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur highlights the importance of these conservation areas. Special measures include:

A ban on dredging in protected habitat areas No dredging in breeding and spawning seasons for valued aquatic species Speed restrictions for barges in protected areas Fitting of noise control and animal exclusion devices on all vessels Compliance with zero discharge standards to protect river biodiversity

In conclusion, the revival of Ganga as a waterway through the National Waterway 1 project represents a significant step towards sustainable and efficient logistics in India. By modernizing and adapting to the natural environment, the project not only aims to boost trade efficiency but also to protect the rich aquatic biodiversity of the Ganges river.