The National Waterways Act of 2016 is a landmark legislation in India aimed at developing and regulating inland waterways for shipping and navigation. Here are its salient features:
Expansion of National Waterways
- It significantly increased the number of declared National Waterways from the existing 5 to 111.
- This expansion covers a total navigable length of over 20,000 km across 24 states.
- The Act merges the five existing Acts that declared the initial National Waterways.
Declaration of New National Waterways
- The Act identifies and declares 106 new inland waterways as National Waterways in addition to the existing five.
- The Schedule to the Act specifies all 111 National Waterways along with their geographical limits.
Central Government Jurisdiction
- The regulation and development of all declared National Waterways fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Central Government.
Role of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)
- The Act designates the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) as the primary body responsible for the development, maintenance, and regulation of these National Waterways.
- It amends the Inland Waterways Authority of India Act, 1985, to reflect the expanded list of National Waterways.
Objectives
- To promote inland water transport as a cost-effective, fuel-efficient, and environment-friendly mode of transportation, especially for bulk goods and over-dimensional cargo.
- To integrate inland waterways with other modes of transport like road and rail for seamless multimodal transportation.
- To enhance connectivity and boost trade and tourism.
- To reduce congestion on roads and railways.
- To contribute to economic growth by reducing logistics costs.
Regulatory Framework
- The Act provides a framework for regulating inland vessel construction, navigation safety, and environmental protection on National Waterways.
- The Central Government is empowered to make rules regarding vessel registration, manning and crew standards, and waste management.
Repeal and Saving
- The Act repeals previous Acts that specifically declared the initial five National Waterways.
- It ensures continuity by stating that actions taken under the repealed Acts, if consistent with the new Act, are considered to have been taken under this Act.
Implementation
- The Central Government, through the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is responsible for implementing the Act in conjunction with the IWAI.
In essence, the National Waterways Act, 2016, provides a comprehensive legal framework to unlock the potential of India’s inland waterways, aiming for a more integrated, efficient, and sustainable transportation network.