Question

With reference to Inland water transportation in India,
1.Freight transportation by waterways is highly under-utilised in India compared to other large countries and geographic areas like the United States, China and the European Union.
2.The National Waterways Act, 2016 identifies additional 101 waterways as national waterways with an objective to promote fuel efficient, cost effective and environment friendly mode of transport.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• A. a) Only 1
  
• B. b) Only 2
  
• C. c) Both
  
• D. d) None
  

Answer 1

The correct option is C c) Both


Answer-c
India has an extensive network of inland waterways in the form of rivers,canals,backwaters and creeks. The total navigable length is 14,500 km (9,000mi), out of which about 5,200 km (3,200mi) of the river and 4,000 km (2,500mi) of canals can be used by mechanized crafts. Freight transportation by waterways is highly under-utilized in India compared to other large countries and geographic areas like theUnited States,China and the European Union. The total cargo moved (in tonne kilometers) by the inland waterway was just 0.1% of the total inland traffic in India, compared to the 21% figure for United States. Cargo transportation in an organised manner is confined to a few waterways in Goa,West Bengal,Assamand Kerala.
National Waterways Act, 2016
Expands the number of National Waterways to 101 from current level of 5, thereby creating provision for expansion of inland waterway network. Inland waterways is recognised as a fuel efficient, cost effective and environment friendly mode of transport.