Context:
First No Objection Certificate has been issued via the newly launched Digital Portal for National Waterways for developing a Jetty on River Mandovi in Goa.
River Mandovi:
- Also known as Mahadayi or Mhadei river
- Described as the lifeline of Goa
- Originates from – Bhimgad in the Western Ghats (Karnataka).
- Joins with the Zuari river and drains into the Arabian Sea, forming the Mormugao harbour.
- Waterfalls – Dudhsagar and Varapoha.
- Important tributary – River Mapusa.
Digital Portal for National Waterways:
- Launched by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
- Developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), it aims to attract private investment in National Waterways infrastructure.
- Objectives –
- To boost inland water transport (IWT) and enhance connectivity through waterways.
- To streamline investment processes and provide a transparent platform for stakeholders.
- To focus on cargo movement and passenger transportation.
- Current Status – India has 111 National Waterways, with 13 operational for shipping and navigation
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
Gandikota canyon of South India was created by which one of the following rivers?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2022 Prelims]
(a) Cauvery
(b) Manjira
(c) Pennar
(d) Tungabhadra
Answer: (c)