Navigating India’s inland waterways: A comprehensive study & analysis of Buckingham Canal

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the Buckingham Canal's revival potential as part of India's National Waterway-4 (NW-4), combining historical, technical, economic, and governance perspectives. Once a thriving colonial-era waterway transporting 750,000 tons annually, the canal now handles merely 18,000 tons due to siltation, encroachment, and policy neglect. Our research demonstrates that strategic revival could restore 3.3 million metric tons of annual freight capacity, particularly for coal and construction materials, generating ₹416 crore in yearly revenue while offering 56% cost savings compared to road transport. Technical assessments reveal critical requirements, including dredging 3.93 million cubic meters of silt (₹472 crore investment) and modernizing 12 colonial-era locks (₹142 crore). Economic modeling confirms strong viability with a 10-year net present value of ₹1,755 crore and 18.4% internal rate of return. However, significant governance challenges persist, including inter-state conflicts between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh over water allocation, 4,200 urban encroachments requiring rehabilitation, and misalignment between stakeholder needs and current policies. The study proposes actionable solutions including an Inter-State Waterway Authority, seasonal zoning for multi-purpose use, and blockchain-based land records.Methodologically, the research innovates through triangulation of historical archives, geospatial analysis (drone and satellite data), and ground truthing, revealing a 23% underestimation of siltation in remote surveys. The findings contribute to India's Maritime Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals by providing a replicable model for reviving inland waterways as sustainable transport corridors that balance economic, ecological and social priorities. The Buckingham Canal's revival represents not just infrastructure rehabilitation but an opportunity to reconnect with India's waterway heritage while addressing contemporary challenges of logistics efficiency, flood mitigation, and regional development.