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E-Commerce cargo movement starts course on NW 1

Published: 24th Nov, 2023

Context:

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Amazon Seller Services Private Limited (Amazon) for promoting cargo movement and transportation using river Ganga (National Waterway 1).

Key Highlights-

MoU for Inland Waterways Transportation

  • The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Amazon signed a Memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote cargo movement and transportation of customer shipments via the Ganga River (National Waterway 1).
  • The agreement aims to leverage inland waterways, specifically the Ganga, to optimize logistics efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and foster economic development.

Strategic Collaboration for E-commerce Cargo

  • The collaboration signifies a significant advancement in transporting e-commerce cargo through India's inland waterways.
  • This partnership aligns with the Prime Minister's vision of enhancing inland waterways as a sustainable and affordable mode of transportation, contributing to the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability

  • Water transport is recognized as the most environmentally friendly mode, consuming significantly less fuel compared to rail and road transport.
  • According to a World Bank Report, rail and road transport consume 5% and 91.6% more fuel than water transport, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Key Stakeholders and Vision

  • The MoU signing ceremony was attended by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, along with other senior officials.
  • The initiative supports the larger goal of increasing inland water transport volumes to over 200 MMT by 2030 and exceeding 500 MMT by 2047, as outlined in the Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

E-commerce and Inland Waterways Integration

  • Amazon's collaboration with IWAI allows the company to utilize various modes of transport, including rail, air, water, and surface, ensuring faster, cost-effective, and sustainable delivery of customer packages.
  • The partnership not only benefits Amazon by reducing transportation costs but also opens possibilities for other e-commerce companies to leverage India's extensive inland waterways. 
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