Kalughat Terminal Achieves Five-Star Sustainability Rating
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has made significant strides in promoting sustainable infrastructure with its Intermodal Terminal (IMT) at Kalughat, Bihar. Recently, this terminal received a prestigious five-star SVAGRIHA rating from the GRIHA Council. This recognition highlights the terminal’s commitment to environmentally sustainable practices and its role in enhancing the capacity of National Waterway 1 (NW 1) on the River Ganga. The award was presented to key officials from IWAI, including Shri Arvind Kumar, Director of the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP), and representatives from the contractor agency, Sanjay Construction Company.
Understanding the SVAGRIHA Rating
The SVAGRIHA rating stands for Simple Versatile Affordable GRIHA. It is part of a broader initiative to promote green buildings and sustainable practices in India. This rating system is a collaborative effort between the Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). The GRIHA framework evaluates buildings based on their environmental performance and sustainability.
The IMT at Kalughat earned its five-star rating due to its innovative use of recyclable materials during construction. These materials include fiber, recyclable glass, and eco-friendly paints and fixtures. The terminal’s design and construction adhere to the principles of sustainable development, which is essential for facilitating cargo and passenger movement along NW 1. By prioritizing environmentally friendly practices, the IMT sets a benchmark for future infrastructure projects in India.
Sustainable Construction Practices
The construction of the IMT at Kalughat was guided by stringent energy and waste management criteria established by the GRIHA Council. These criteria encompass various aspects of sustainable development, including site planning, building materials, energy optimization, water management, and solid waste management.
One of the standout features of the IMT is its sewage treatment plan, which recycles water for operational use. This initiative not only conserves water but also reduces the environmental impact of the terminal’s operations. Additionally, the project emphasizes the use of renewable energy sources, further enhancing its sustainability profile. The incorporation of construction and demolition waste in the building process reflects a commitment to minimizing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
Economic Impact and Connectivity
The IMT Kalughat was built at a cost of ₹82.48 crore and has a capacity of handling 77,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEU) per annum. This terminal plays a crucial role in the transportation of cargo to and from the hinterlands of North Bihar. Its strategic location also provides vital connectivity to Nepal, facilitating export-import (EXIM) cargo movement.
The development of the IMT aligns with the vision of a developed India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The IWAI is dedicated to building inclusive and climate-resilient infrastructure on national waterways. The Kalughat terminal exemplifies this commitment and contributes to the overall economic growth of the region. By enhancing connectivity and promoting sustainable practices, the IMT is poised to become a key player in India’s inland water transport sector.
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