Inland water transport gets a boost, inks deal with global logistics firm

In a big push towards sustainable transportation, India has signed a significant agreement with global logistics giant Rhenus Logistics. As part of the deal, Rhenus will introduce 100 cargo vessels including pusher tugs to operate in a phased manner across key inland water routes: National Waterways 1, 2, and 16, along with the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) routes.

This move is expected to breathe new life into India's inland water transport system, which has long been seen as an underused but promising mode of cargo movement. The plan not only aims to ease pressure on road and rail networks but also significantly cut down on carbon emissions making it a key part of India's green logistics vision.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has hailed the deal as a landmark step toward tapping the potential of rivers as efficient freight corridors. With international expertise and environmentally friendly operations, the entry of Rhenus could set a new benchmark in how goods are moved across India quietly and cleanly through its vast network of rivers.