The meeting was
attended by Mons Joseph, Minister for Water Resources, and Biswanath Sinha.
Discussions focused on resolving pending issues and ensuring the timely
execution of the critical infrastructure project, which is considered vital for
improving navigability along Kerala’s inland waterways network. The Thrikunnapuzha Navigational Lock Gate
is a key component of National Waterway-3, one of India’s busiest inland
waterways corridors stretching through Kerala. Once completed, the facility is
expected to facilitate smoother vessel movement, improve operational
efficiency, and reduce disruptions caused by varying water levels along the
route. Officials highlighted that
the project will play an important role in strengthening inland water
transport, promoting sustainable logistics, and enhancing connectivity for
cargo and passenger movement across the state. Improved navigation
infrastructure is also expected to support economic activities in the region by
providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of transport. The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between the Central
and State governments to accelerate infrastructure development on National
Waterway-3, in line with broader initiatives to boost multimodal transport and
unlock the full potential of Kerala’s extensive waterways network. With
renewed focus on the project’s completion, stakeholders expressed confidence
that the Thrikunnapuzha Navigational Lock Gate will significantly contribute to
the growth and modernization of inland water transport in Kerala.