Kalughat Terminal Achieves Five-Star Sustainability Rating

The Inland Waterways Authority of India’s Intermodal Terminal at Kalughat, Bihar, has recently been awarded a five-star SVAGRIHA rating. This recognition comes as part of the World Bank funded Jal Marg Vikas Project aimed at enhancing capacity on National Waterway 1, which runs along the River Ganga. The award was presented to key officials from the project, denoting the initiative’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

About SVAGRIHA and GRIHA

SVAGRIHA stands for Simple Versatile Affordable GRIHA. It is a rating system that promotes green building practices. GRIHA, developed by the Energy and Resources Institute, evaluates buildings based on their environmental performance. The goal is to encourage sustainable construction methods and materials.

Importance of the IMT Kalughat

The IMT Kalughat is crucial for enhancing cargo and passenger transport on National Waterway 1. It has a capacity to handle 77,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEU) per year. The terminal plays a vital role in connecting North Bihar with Nepal for export-import activities.

Environmental Sustainability Practices

The five-star rating reflects the terminal’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It incorporates recyclable materials in its construction. This includes the use of fibre, recyclable glass, and eco-friendly sanitary fixtures. Such practices reduce waste and promote resource conservation.

Energy and Waste Management

The construction of the terminal adheres to stringent energy and waste management criteria. It features a sewage treatment plant for water recycling. The terminal also optimises the use of renewable energy sources during its operations. These measures reduce its carbon footprint.

Investment and Economic Impact

Constructed at a cost of ₹82.48 crore, the IMT Kalughat is infrastructure investment. It not only supports local economic growth but also aligns with the vision of a developed India. The terminal enhances trade routes and promotes economic resilience in the region.

Future Prospects

The success of the IMT Kalughat sets a precedent for future projects under the Inland Waterways Authority of India. It demonstrates the potential for sustainable infrastructure development in India. The initiative aligns with broader goals of climate resilience and economic inclusivity.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of green buildings in urban development in India.
2. Estimate the impact of inland waterways on India’s trade and economy.
3. Point out the environmental benefits of using recyclable materials in construction.
4. What is the Jal Marg Vikas Project? How does it enhance the capacity of National Waterway 1?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of green buildings in urban development in India.

1. Green buildings contribute to energy efficiency, reducing urban heat and lowering utility costs.
2. They promote sustainable resource use, minimizing waste and reliance on non-renewable materials.
3. Green buildings enhance indoor air quality, leading to better health outcomes for occupants.
4. Government initiatives and ratings, like GRIHA, encourage the adoption of sustainable practices in construction.
5. Urban areas adopting green buildings can improve resilience against climate change impacts.

2. Estimate the impact of inland waterways on India’s trade and economy.

1. Inland waterways reduce transportation costs, making trade more economical compared to road and rail.
2. They facilitate the movement of bulk cargo, enhancing logistical efficiency in supply chains.
3. Improved connectivity through waterways boosts regional trade, particularly in hinterland areas.
4. Inland waterways can alleviate road congestion and reduce carbon emissions from transport.
5. The development of terminals like IMT Kalughat creates jobs and stimulates local economies.

3. Point out the environmental benefits of using recyclable materials in construction.

1. Recyclable materials reduce the demand for virgin resources, conserving natural resources.
2. They minimize waste generation, decreasing landfill usage and pollution.
3. Using recycled materials lowers the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation.
4. Promoting recyclable materials encourages a circular economy, encouraging sustainable practices.
5. It enhances the durability and lifecycle of buildings, contributing to long-term sustainability.

4. What is the Jal Marg Vikas Project? How does it enhance the capacity of National Waterway 1?

1. The Jal Marg Vikas Project aims to develop and enhance the navigability of National Waterway 1 on the River Ganga.
2. It includes infrastructure development like terminals, fairway improvements, and navigational aids.
3. The project is funded by the World Bank, focusing on sustainable and climate-resilient practices.
4. It increases cargo handling capacity, facilitating efficient transport of goods across regions.
5. The project supports economic growth by improving trade routes and enhancing connectivity with neighboring countries.