The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) and the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the UP Inland Waterways Authority.
This collaboration aims to develop and regulate inland waterways in Uttar Pradesh, thereby enhancing transportation efficiency and fostering economic growth.
Under this agreement, the IRS will assist the Uttar Pradesh government in formulating the UP Inland Waterways Authority and developing relevant rules based on the IWAI Act 2021 and IWAI Rules 2022.
IRS will also provide technical support to the new authority, ensuring the implementation of best practices for safety and green initiatives in line with the latest national and international standards.
Additionally, the IRS will help identify upscaling opportunities for department officials and other stakeholders, contributing to skill enhancement and capacity building.
This partnership represents a significant step towards sustainable development and the efficient use of Uttar Pradesh’s inland waterways, aligning with the broader vision of environmental conservation and economic growth.
By leveraging the state’s extensive river network, the authority aims to facilitate the seamless movement of goods and passengers, enhance connectivity, and stimulate regional development.
Shri Chandra Bhushan Singh, IAS, Transport commissioner of Uttar Pradesh, expressed his gratitude towards IRS for their ongoing support. He emphasized that the formation of the authority would boost the local economy by providing low-cost and environmentally friendly transportation options for cargo and passengers through navigable channels.
He also highlighted the potential for pilgrimage tourism under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Additionally, the authority aims to contribute to river conservation, pollution prevention, and overall improvement in the quality of life for residents.
Shri Amit Bhatnagar, senior principal surveyor, and Shri Devrup Kabi, senior principal surveyor, IRS, assured the Transport Commissioner and the Transport Department of their full support and expertise in this initiative. They reiterated the IRS’ commitment to providing state-of-the-art technical assistance and services to ensure the success of the UP Inland Waterways Authority.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by notable officials including Shri Sanjay Nath Jha (RTO HQ), Shri PS Satyarthi (Additional Transport Commissioner Enforcement & Road Safety), Shri AK Singh (Additional Transport Commissioner Revenue & IT), and from the IRS side, Shri Naveen Kumar (Senior Surveyor).
