WB to help transform inland water transport

The Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) and the Assam Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further enhance the World Bank funded inland water transport (IWT) system to improve commuter safety in the state.

The MOU follows the funding agreement between the Assam Government and the World Bank to modernize and transform inland water transport in the state which has the largest network of navigable inland waterways in India.

Plans include the integration of high-quality passenger and vehicle ferry services into its wider transport network.

IRClass will be providing technical assistance to the Assam Government including the preparation of technical specification of vessels, evaluation of shipyards bids, inspections during construction and certification.

This MOU, announced on 18 Jan 2019, will be administered under the guidance and initiative of the Assam Government’s Commissioner & Secretary (Transport) and IRClass will partner with Assam Inland Water Transport Development Society (AIWTDS) to support its plans.

Sr. Principal Surveyor & VP, Cdr K Dhawan, IN (Retd.), said: “This initiative will help boost the state’s growth with scaling opportunities including the development of IWT terminals, port townships and operation of river taxis. IRClass will soon be opening an office in Guwahati to work closely with the Assam Government in developing its inland water transport.” fiinews.com