Report of the Committee on the Working of Central Inland Water Transport Corporation Ltd. New Delhi May 1971

Abstract

The Report on the Working of the Central Inland Water Transport Corporation Ltd. critically examines the operational and financial performance of CIWTC since its establishment in 1967. The analysis highlights persistent losses arising from outdated fleets, underutilized assets, staffing inefficiencies, and inadequate traffic generation in Assam and West Bengal. With cumulative losses nearly eroding its entire capital base, the report recommends financial restructuring through liability write-offs, capital reorganization, and continued government subsidies. It further advocates modernization of infrastructure, expansion of profitable activities such as tea warehousing, and diversification into services like dredging and ferry operations. Overall, the report underscores the need for decisive state support and strategic reforms to ensure the long-term viability of inland water transport as a critical component of regional connectivity and economic development.