New Delhi: Mansukh Mandaviya, MoS, Shipping on Thursday said that inland waterways forms one of the important pillars of 'Arth-Ganga' project and will play a key role in generation of employment opportunities in the waterways stretch across the country.
Addressing a press conference, Mansukh Mandaviya said, "Almost half of the Indian population lives around Ganges river belt. About one-fifth of all India's freight originates and one-third terminates in the states around Ganges belt."
"We expect that by the end of 2021, 65 per cent of inland waterways projected work to get completed. As of now, we have completed 55 per cent of the work," he said, adding that the initiative taken by the Shipping ministry has resulted in substantial growth in terms of increasing inland cruises from 3 to 9, cargo from 30 lakh metric ton to 70 lakh metric ton and vessels in-flow from 300 to 700.
The Union Minister further said that the Shipping ministry's initiative to develop small jetties will be beneficial for farmers, traders and the general public in the 1400 km stretch of National Highway-1 from Banaras to Haldia.
Citing an example, he said Marigold flowers grown in Kaithi village of Varanasi are used for offering prayers across UP and Bihar, but after plucking, it takes a lot of time to get transported. Transportation of goods is easier and cost-effective by waterways.
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