The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has signed an MoU with the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to promote river cruise tourism on three National Waterways in the Union Territory.

The agreement, signed during Chintan Shivir in Srinagar, aims to enhance tourism, generate employment, and boost economic growth. Jammu and Kashmir has three national waterways—River Chenab (NW-26), River Jhelum (NW-49), and River Ravi (NW-84). As part of the MoU, IWAI will develop waterside and landside infrastructure, including ten floating jetties and passenger amenities.

Two jetties will be installed on River Chenab, seven on River Jhelum, and one on River Ravi. IWAI will also execute dredging, provide navigational aids, and conduct hydrographic surveys to ensure safe navigation.

The J&K government will allocate land, facilitate clearances, and appoint cruise operators. The project, estimated at Rs 100 crore, is part of India's broader initiative to promote river cruise tourism across the country, from Kashmir to Kerala and Assam to Gujarat.