Vijayawada:
In a significant step towards promoting inland water transport in Andhra Pradesh, Minister for Water Resources BC Janardhan Reddy flagged off a grand boat marathon at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada. The event was organized to celebrate the second anniversary of the Inland Waterways Authority, an institution dedicated to developing and managing water-based transportation routes across the country.
The ceremony witnessed the enthusiastic participation of local dignitaries, government officials, and members of the public. The boat marathon featured a variety of watercraft, from traditional boats to modern speed boats, symbolizing both heritage and progress in inland navigation. The event underscored the state's commitment to eco-friendly transport options and highlighted the role of waterways in economic and infrastructural development.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister BC Janardhan Reddy emphasized the importance of inland waterways in reducing pressure on road and rail networks. He noted that Andhra Pradesh, with its extensive river systems including the Krishna and Godavari rivers, holds immense potential for developing water-based transportation. The minister added that promoting inland water transport is aligned with the state’s vision of sustainable development and green logistics.
The Inland Waterways Authority, established two years ago, has made notable progress in mapping, planning, and executing water transport routes. With support from the central and state governments, several pilot projects have been launched to test the feasibility of cargo and passenger movement via rivers and canals. The success of these initiatives is expected to pave the way for long-term infrastructure investment in the sector.
The event at Punnami Ghat included a ceremonial opening, followed by a boat parade and competitive races. Local communities gathered in large numbers to witness the spectacle, which also featured cultural performances and educational exhibitions about waterway safety, environmental conservation, and infrastructure development.
Officials from the Inland Waterways Authority briefed the media on current projects underway in the state, including dredging operations, construction of jetties, and digital tracking systems for boats. They expressed optimism that increased public and private sector collaboration would accelerate the growth of water transport services in Andhra Pradesh.
Environmental experts present at the event welcomed the state government’s efforts to shift freight and passenger transport to waterways, citing the potential for reduced emissions and lower transportation costs. They called for continuous public engagement, investment in training for boat operators, and strict adherence to environmental norms.
Overall, the boat marathon served not only as a celebration of the Inland Waterways Authority's anniversary but also as a call to action for embracing water transport as a viable and sustainable option. It marked another step forward in Andhra Pradesh’s journey toward building a modern, multimodal transport ecosystem.
