The Inland Waterways and Cruise Development project aims to develop inland navigation waterways to reduce road traffic and also to promote backwater tourism. It would develop water connectivity, linking all the lagoons and river estuaries. The project facilities would include cruise liners, onboard facilities ( cabins, play area, indoor games, restaurant etc.), Off-board infrastructure (jetty facilities, lounge area, connectivity to base stations etc.) Inland water transport would mean cheaper mode of transport, which is not only safe and energy efficient but also environment friendly. The project also offers potential for integrating Inland waterways with coastal shipping for the movement of cargo to ports. With waterways connecting the ports, it would be economical to distribute the cargo through these waterways. The estimated cost for road development, bridge development works, dredging and maintenance would be around Rs. 10,000 crore