Sambalpur, 6th Aug 2025:– A monthly thalweg survey has been conducted on National Waterway-64 (Mahanadi) in Odisha, aimed at mapping the deepest navigable channel of the river. This hydrographic survey, carried out by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), is a key step toward transforming the Mahanadi into a cost-effective and sustainable mode of transport in the future.
Due to lower transportation costs compared to road and rail, the Mahanadi waterway is being considered a viable alternative. The survey is focused on ensuring safe navigation and planning for commercial inland water transport.
Fuel Efficiency Comparison:
- Road: 1 litre of fuel can transport 24 tonnes per kilometre.
- Rail: 1 litre can transport 95 tonnes per kilometre.
- Waterway: 1 litre can transport a remarkable 215 tonnes per kilometre.
Given this high efficiency, the central government is actively working to develop inland waterways as a sustainable logistics option. Developed countries like Russia, China, and the USA already prioritize inland water transport, and India is following suit.