Welcome to Assam Inland Waterways Company Limited (AIWCL)

Assam Inland Waterways Company Limited (AIWCL) is a Government of Assam enterprise committed to transforming the state’s extensive river network into a safe, efficient, and sustainable mode of transportation. By integrating modern infrastructure, innovative technologies, and inclusive policies, AIWCL seeks to unlock the economic, ecological, and cultural potential of Assam’s inland waterways.

The creation of AIWCL is a result of a comprehensive institutional restructuring of the inland water transport sector in Assam. The unbundling of the Directorate of Inland Water Transport (DIWTA) led to the formation of a tripartite framework consisting of:

• Assam Inland Water Transport Regulatory Authority (AIWTRA) – established under the Assam Inland Water Transport Regulatory Act, 2018 to ensure sectoral governance, safety regulation, and compliance monitoring;

• Directorate of Inland Water Transport (DIWT) – retaining administrative oversight and policy support;

• Assam Inland Waterways Company Limited (AIWCL) – the operating and asset management arm of the sector.

Initially envisioned as two separate entities, the Assam Port Company and Assam Shipping Company, their intended roles were subsequently integrated into a single unified entity, AIWCL, which was incorporated under the Companies Act, 2013 in July 2022.

AIWCL is entrusted with executing ferry operations, managing and maintaining terminals, facilitating cargo movement, and promoting private sector participation. The company works in close coordination with the Assam Inland Water Transport Development Society (AIWTDS), DIWT, and national agencies like Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL) to ensure holistic sectoral development.

As the nodal agency for investment facilitation and project execution, AIWCL serves as a one-stop solution provider for investors and stakeholders across the inland waterways ecosystem. From regulatory coordination to infrastructure implementation, the company ensures seamless project delivery with transparency and efficiency.

AIWCL also plays a vital role in bridging government bodies, private players, and local communities to create a collaborative and inclusive development ecosystem. By aligning stakeholder interests and promoting sustainable practices, the company is working to position Assam’s inland water transport sector as a key contributor to regional connectivity, economic development, and climate resilience. Through its mission-driven approach and enabling environment, AIWCL is actively fostering investment and innovation, unlocking the full potential of Assam’s rivers as lifelines for trade, mobility, and growth

Vision

To establish Assam as a leader in inland waterway transportation by developing a safe, efficient, eco-friendly, and inclusive river transport system that enhances regional connectivity, drives economic growth, and improves the quality of life.

Mission

• Operationalize a robust, multi-modal transport network using Assam’s navigable rivers.
• Promote public-private partnerships in ferry operations, cargo handling, and terminal development.
• Ensure environmental sustainability and safety in all waterway initiatives.
• Empower communities by improving accessibility and creating livelihood opportunities.
• Develop a skilled workforce for the IWT sector.