Lucknow: The Yogi government has taken a significant step towards developing water transport and tourism in the state by approving the establishment of the ‘Uttar Pradesh Inland Waterways Authority.’ To ensure smooth functioning, the ‘Uttar Pradesh Waterways Authority Rules 2025’ have been promulgated. The Yogi Cabinet has given its approval to these rules. Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna briefed the media at Lok Bhavan about the Cabinet’s decisions. He informed that discussions were held on 12 proposals, out of which 11 were approved.
Affordable and Convenient Transport via Waterways
Notably, the country has declared 111 national waterways, of which Uttar Pradesh hosts 11, including the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. The government aims to make transportation cost-effective and convenient through waterways. Developing this system is expected to reduce pressure on other modes of transport and promote commercial activities.
Experts to Hold Key Positions
The authority will be led by the Transport Minister appointed by the Chief Minister or an expert in inland waterways, shipping, navigation, ports, and maritime affairs. The Vice-Chairman will be another expert appointed by the state government. Additionally, secretaries of key departments like finance, public works, tourism, irrigation, and environment will serve as ex-officio members. A representative from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Transport Commissioner of Uttar Pradesh will also be included.
Structure and Functions of the Authority
The authority will encompass provisions regarding the powers and duties of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, travel allowances, meeting procedures, advisory committees, operational processes, tenure of members, an expert panel, budget, accounting, and audits. It will also include provisions related to annual financial reports, reserve funds, and land and property management.
Promotion of Water Tourism
Along with water transport, the Uttar Pradesh government is also planning to boost water tourism. Efforts will be made to connect various tourist spots via waterways, making them more attractive. This initiative is expected to enhance tourist experiences and strengthen the state’s economy. The government’s decision is seen as a major step towards economic growth and the promotion of water transport.
Liquor Shops Licenses to be Issued via E-Lottery
The Yogi Cabinet has also approved the excise policy for 2025-26. During the press conference, Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal announced that liquor shop licenses will now be issued through an e-lottery system, with no renewals of old licenses for this year. However, renewals will be an option in 2026-27. The government has set a revenue target of ₹55,000 crore, an increase of ₹4,000 crore from the previous fiscal year. Additionally, individuals, firms, or companies will not be allowed to hold more than two licenses. The policy also introduces foreign liquor in 60ml and 90ml packs for the first time.
469 New Vehicles for UP 112
To ensure seamless operations of the UP 112 emergency response service, the Cabinet has approved a proposal to replace 469 old vehicles with new ones. A budget of over ₹43 crore has been allocated for the procurement of both four-wheelers and two-wheelers.
New Greenfield Dairy Plant in Mathura
Considering the availability of milk and development potential, a new Greenfield dairy plant will be set up in Mathura. The plant will have a daily capacity of one lakh liters, to be achieved in three phases. In the first phase, the plant will process 30,000 liters per day. Initially planned for Firozabad, the project has now been shifted to Mathura.
High-Specification Tablets for Teachers
To promote digital learning, high-specification tablets will be provided to teachers in government schools. The state government will bear additional costs beyond the ₹5,166.70 lakh approved by the central government. An extra ₹1,468.80 lakh will be allocated by the state to ensure the tablets are more effective for students.
Expansion of 500-Bed Trauma Center at KGMU
With an increasing number of patients at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow, the Cabinet has decided to expand the existing trauma center from 460 to 500 beds. Additionally, a patient utility complex will be constructed. The expansion project is estimated to cost ₹272.97 crore and will ensure that critically injured patients receive all necessary surgical specialty services under one roof.
This move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of providing better healthcare and emergency services, reinforcing the commitment to public welfare.
