River Routes Reimagined: IWAI and Rhenus Logistics Embark to Revolutionize India's Cargo Transport

Unknown Apr 02, 2026 750 Views

In a historic step to transform India's logistics sector, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with international logistics giant Rhenus Logistics India. The collaboration is set to turbocharge cargo growth on national waterwa...

Key Highlights:

100 New-age Ships to Set Sail: Rhenus Logistics is going to utilize 100 new-generation cargo barges and pusher tugs on key national waterways-including NW-1 (Ganga), NW-2 (Brahmaputra), NW-16 (Barak), and Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes-in a phased manner. The first phase, beginning Q3 2025, will include 20 barges and 6 tugs.
Increasing Bulk and Break-Bulk Cargo: Low-draft capability of the new fleet will efficiently carry steel, coal, agriculture products, and building materials across North, East, and Northeast India, eventually expanding across the country.
Public-Private Power: The MoU is a pioneering move toward private sector engagement in India's inland water transport (IWT) with guarantees of innovation, capital infusion, and employment opportunities.
Environment-Friendly and Economical: Inland waterway transport will reduce the cost of logistics, minimize road traffic jams, and reduce emissions, supporting India's sustainability ambitions.
Supported by Key Projects: The partnership backs the Jal Marg Vikas Project with World Bank finance and takes advantage of new incentives from the government such as the 'Jalvahak' Cargo Promotion Scheme, which provides for an up to 35% reimbursement of waterway cargo operations.
Record Cargo and Expansion: Operating waterways have increased to 29, with cargo traffic reaching all-time highs and scheduled services providing reliability to the industry.