Jhelum Cruise Set for Revival as River Transport Project Gains Momentum
Secretary Transport reviews preparedness for water transport initiative on Srinagar’s historic river
Project expected to boost tourism, ease urban congestion, revive Kashmir’s age-old river culture
Srinagar: The historic River Jhelum, once the lifeline of Kashmir’s economy and transport network, is poised for a modern-day revival as the Government of Jammu and Kashmir accelerates preparations for launching an ambitious river cruise transport service in Srinagar.
Secretary Transport Avny Lavasa on Thursday reviewed arrangements for the proposed River Cruise Transport Project being developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in collaboration with the J&K Government.
Accompanied by the Regional Transport Officer Kashmir and Joint Director Transport, Lavasa inspected the proposed cruise corridor stretching from Zero Bridge to Pantha Chowk, visiting various terminal locations to assess infrastructure readiness and operational preparedness.
The inspection focused on passenger embarkation and disembarkation facilities, navigational requirements, safety measures and other critical infrastructure required for commencement of the service.
For centuries, the Jhelum served as Kashmir’s principal transport artery, carrying passengers, timber, agricultural produce and other goods across the Valley before roads gradually replaced waterways. The river not only shaped Srinagar’s urban landscape but also its economy, trade and culture.
The proposed cruise project aims to reconnect the city with its historic waterway while introducing a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport.
During the review, the Secretary stressed the need for close coordination among IWAI, the Transport Department and other stakeholder agencies to ensure timely completion of the project while maintaining the highest standards of safety, operational efficiency and passenger convenience.
“The project has to be implemented with a strong emphasis on safety, seamless passenger movement and operational excellence,” an official associated with the project said.
Another senior official said the initiative would serve multiple objectives beyond tourism.
“This is not merely a tourism venture but an effort to revive inland water transport in Kashmir and create an eco-friendly mobility option for residents and visitors alike,” the official said.
Officials believe the project could eventually complement Srinagar’s overburdened road network while creating new tourism opportunities along the riverfront.
“The river cruise service will provide passengers with a unique experience of travelling through the heart of Srinagar while showcasing the city’s heritage bridges, historic ghats and iconic riverfront,” an official said.
The River Cruise Transport Project is expected to enhance the tourism potential of the Jhelum, promote green mobility and revive the centuries-old relationship between Kashmir and its waterways.
If implemented as envisioned, the initiative could mark the return of water transport to the Valley in a modern avatar, reconnecting Srinagar with the river that has shaped its history and identity for generations.
