IWAI Established its New Office in Srinagar to Develop River Navigation Infrastructure in J&K

Current Context: On May 13, 2025, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) inaugurated its new regional office at Transport Bhawan, Srinagar, to develop river navigation infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).

Key Developments:

• MoU Signed: IWAI signed an MoU with the J&K government to enhance three national waterways—NW-26 (River Chenab), NW-49 (River Jhelum), and NW-84 (River Ravi).
• Infrastructure Upgrades: The project includes floating jetties at 10 locations, dredging for navigational fairways, night navigation aids, and hydrographic surveys to ensure safe vessel movement.
• Strategic Importance: This initiative aligns with India’s broader push to modernize inland water transport, especially after placing the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance.
• Economic & Tourism Boost: The project aims to stimulate local economies, promote eco-tourism, and strengthen India’s inland water transport network.

This expansion marks a significant step in utilizing J&K’s river systems for sustainable transport and economic growth.

Question:

Q.1 On May 13, 2025, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) inaugurated its new regional office in which city?
a) Jammu
b) Leh
c) Srinagar
d) Kargil

Answer: c) The new IWAI regional office was inaugurated at Transport Bhawan, Srinagar, to oversee river navigation infrastructure in J&K.