Abstract

Indias inland waterway system presents significant opportunities for economic growth environmental sustainability and regional connectivity. Expanding this network can reduce transportation costs ease road and rail congestion and promote the efficient movement of goods and passengers. The potential benefits include enhanced trade reduced carbon emissions and improved regional development. However several challenges must be addressed to realize these advantages. These challenges include infrastructure deficits funding constraints environmental impacts and regulatory hurdles. The success of this expansion depends on strategic planning investment in infrastructure and effective management practices. This paper examines the current state of Indias inland waterways evaluates the potential economic and environmental benefits and identifies key obstacles that must be overcome to achieve a robust and sustainable inland waterway system.