In the Union Budget 2026-27 presented on 1 February 2026, the Government of India announced the establishment of a **ship repair centre in Patna, Bihar, as part of its broader push to develop inland waterways and related infrastructure.
The facility will be part of a “ship repair ecosystem” aimed at supporting vessels and cargo boats operating on inland waterways, especially along the National Waterway-1 that runs along the Ganga River. A similar facility will also be set up in Varanasi.
Officials and analysts say the new centre is expected to benefit the local economy by enabling easier and faster repair and maintenance of vessels locally, which should reduce operational costs and turnaround times. It may also create skilled jobs linked to water transport and logistics services.
This announcement is part of a larger strategy in the budget to promote inland water transport as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to road and rail freight movement. Initiatives include plans for further waterway development and related infrastructure.
State leaders and industry bodies
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