The National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, aim to improve infrastructure and ease of doing business by allowing private investment and streamlining processes. The regulations require entities to obtain a ‘No.
Objection Certificate’ (NoC) to develop or operate jetties and terminals on national waterways. Both permanent and temporary terminals are covered, with terminal developers and operators responsible for technical design and construction. The IWAI is.
Developing an online application portal to streamline the process, promoting efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, IWAI has made significant strides in developing waterways as a key driver of economic growth, with cargo movement on national waterways increasing from 18 million tonnes to 133 million tonnes in FY 2023-24.
India is taking significant steps to enhance its maritime infrastructure by introducing new regulations aimed at streamlining the development of jetties and terminals across the country. These measures are expected to attract private investments, improve port connectivity, and strengthen the nation’s logistics and trade ecosystem.
The Need for New Regulations
India’s maritime sector plays a crucial role in facilitating trade, with ports handling over 90% of the country’s international cargo by volume. However, inefficiencies in infrastructure, regulatory bottlenecks, and slow project approvals have hindered the growth of jetties and terminals, particularly for industries reliant on efficient coastal and inland water transport.
Recognizing these challenges, the government has introduced regulatory reforms to simplify procedures, encourage private sector participation, and enhance the ease of doing business in maritime logistics. These regulations align with the Maritime India Vision 2030, which aims to modernize and expand the country’s port infrastructure.
Key Features of the New Regulations
- Single-Window Clearance System
A centralized system has been introduced to fast-track approvals for jetty and terminal projects. This system will reduce delays and ensure that investors and developers can navigate regulatory requirements more efficiently. - Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Incentives
To attract private investment, the government is offering financial incentives, tax benefits, and long-term lease agreements for developers involved in jetty and terminal construction. The new regulations also provide clarity on revenue-sharing models to ensure mutually beneficial agreements. - Environmental and Safety Standards
The updated regulations include stricter environmental compliance measures to promote sustainable development. Developers will need to implement eco-friendly practices such as shoreline protection, dredging management, and the use of cleaner fuels in port operations. - Integration with Multimodal Transport Networks
The new policy emphasizes better connectivity between jetties, terminals, and inland waterways, railways, and highways. This integration aims to create seamless cargo movement, reducing logistics costs and improving supply chain efficiency. - Encouraging Coastal Shipping and Inland Waterways
Special incentives are being provided for projects that enhance coastal shipping and inland water transport. These efforts are aligned with the government’s push to shift freight traffic from roads to waterways, which is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Impact on India’s Maritime and Trade Sector
The introduction of these regulations is expected to significantly boost India’s maritime trade and logistics infrastructure. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and offering financial incentives, the government aims to attract both domestic and international investors.
Group Media Publication
Construction, Infrastructure and Mining
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