Wednesday, June, 03,2026

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Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announces major infra push to boost Inland Waterways in Bihar


 Patna : Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a major infra push to boost Inland Waterways in Bihar, reaffirming the collective effort to rejuvenate rivers in the country, especially the National Waterways. He said that Inland Water Transport (IWT) was an environmentally sustainable mode of transport.
 


 The announcements were made at the inaugural session of the Consultative Workshop on Inland Waterways Development on National Waterways-1 (river Ganga), the first such workshop held in Patna on Monday.
 


 Speaking at the workshop, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, "Today, at this Consultative Workshop, we reaffirm our collective effort to rejuvenate our rivers, especially the National Waterways, to become engines of our future growth, not merely a relic of our past. IWT is the cleanest, most cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable mode of transport."
 


 Setting the context for the rejuvenation of the river Ganga, Union Minister Sonowal said, "I bow with reverence to the sacred river Ganga -- the eternal source of life, civilisation, and spiritual energy in this land. In her flowing waters lie centuries of culture, wisdom, livelihood, and continuity. Ganga is not just a river; she is the heartbeat of the Indian subcontinent. And today, as we gather in Patna -- a city nurtured by her embrace -- we renew our resolve to align this sacred river with the nation's modern journey of growth and transformation."
 


 Sarbananda Sonowal announced major initiative in infrastructure development to boost inland waterways in Bihar.
 


 Sonowal said, "Patna is being considered for the introduction of a Water Metro, replicating the successful Kochi Water Metro model, either full or in part, depending upon geographical condition. The proposed system aims to connect both banks of the river and offer a clean, efficient, and modern urban mobility solution for the capital city. In addition, a Ship Repair Facility will be set up in Patna to support a robust inland vessel ecosystem. Apart from repair, this facility will also be equipped to construct new ships. These developments mark a significant step in revitalising River Ganga as a lifeline for sustainable urban transport and align with national efforts to promote eco-friendly, river-centric development."
 


 The Union Minister also announced setting up a Joint Task Force among the Bihar Government, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, and IWAI to explore sustainable development opportunities on the Ganga (NW-1) in Bihar.
 


 Patna-based National Inland Navigation Institute (NINI) is being upgraded as Centre of Excellence (CoE) with fresh investment for the upgradation of facilities and adding newer ones.  NINI is the premier national institution in the field of inland water navigation.
 


 In order to give a boost to passenger movement on NW-1 (Ganga), Sonowal announced, "The Narendra Modi government is committed to transforming inland water transport into a reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation for the people of Bihar. With 16 new community jetties, in addition to the existing 21 community jetties in the state, being developed across key districts, local farmers, traders, and small businesses will gain direct access to river-based markets. The Patna is set to become a logistics hub for northern Bihar and the Kalughat Terminal for Nepal-bound trade, seamlessly integrating with road and rail networks."
 


 "The deployment of Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanisms (QPOMs) at FOUR locations and TWO Ro-Pax terminals, along with TWO hybrid electric catamaran vessels, ensures a smooth, green, and affordable journey for passengers. These efforts reflect the Modi government's vision of a cleaner, greener, and more connected Bihar through sustainable inland waterways. These announcements are not just policy statements. They are a declaration of our intent -- that Bihar, blessed by Ganga, will become a leading hub for inland water-based commerce, tourism, and innovation. With this infrastructure, Patna will emerge as the Water Transport Hub on the river Ganga (NW 1)," he added.
 


 Highlighting the progress of Inland Waterways since 2014 under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister Sonowal said, "Inland Waterways have undergone a remarkable transformation under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Cargo movement has grown by over 700 per cent, with operational waterways increasing nearly ninefold (over 800 per cent) and investments rising fivefold (510 per cent) since 2014. This sector is now a vital pillar of our multimodal logistics strategy, offering a clean, cost-effective alternative to road and rail for transporting heavy and bulk cargo. The rise in river cruise routes -- a handsome growth of 333 per cent since 2013 -- also reflects the growing tourism potential of our national waterways."
 


 The Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), approved in January 2018 at a cost of Rs 5,061.15 crore, aims to develop National Waterway-1 (Haldia to Varanasi) over a 1,390 km stretch with assured depth and width for smooth navigation.  As of May 2025, the project is 68.86 per cent physically complete, with traffic increasing 220 per cent from 5.05 MMT in 2014-15 to 16.38 MMT in 2024-25. With environmental safeguards like zero liquid discharge, bio-toilets, and pingers to protect Gangetic dolphins.
 


 Key components of JMVP include the development of cargo terminals, fairway maintenance along the Varanasi to Haldia stretch of NW-1, and navigational locks that reduce vessel transit time. The project also features community jetties supporting daily footfall of up to 1.22 lakh passengers, cargo aggregation hubs to lower logistics costs, and Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanisms (QPOM) to minimise delays. It further includes facilities like a ship repair hub, a cruise terminal, and training infrastructure to support the growing inland waterways ecosystem.
 


 India's inland waterways sector has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the Narendra Modi government, expanding from just three (03) operational National Waterways (NW) in 2014 to 29 operational NWs across 11 states today.
 


 A total of 111 NWs have been declared, spanning 23 States and 4 Union Territories with a cumulative navigable length of 20,187 km. To support this growing network, 124 terminals--including 27 permanent and 97 floating terminals--are now operational.
 


 Cargo movement on national waterways reached 145.84 million tonnes in FY 2024-25, growing at a CAGR of 20.89 per cent since 2014. In FY-25, 85 per cent of the cargo comprised coal, iron ore, coke, sand, fly ash, vehicles, passengers, limestone, clinker, and cement, highlighting inland waterways as a key mode for bulk and heavy freight.
 


 IWAI is currently conducting 10,000 km of longitudinal surveys per month to assess Least Available Depth (LAD), with coverage set to expand from 11 states in FY24 to 22 states and 4 UTs by FY27. Reflecting the sector's growing significance, projects worth Rs 35,000 crore project pipeline--including PPP initiatives--has been prepared for the next five years.
 


 The government's commitment is further underscored by a 48 per cent increase in the annual budget, rising from Rs 1,203 crore in FY24 to Rs 1,752 crore in FY25.
 


 Top officials of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), and the Government of Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand, among others, were also present at the inaugural session of the consultive workshop. 

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Daily Astro

03-06-2026

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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03-06-2026