Understanding National Waterway 10 (NW-10)

National Waterways (NWs) are designated stretches of rivers, lakes, and canals declared by the Indian government for the purpose of commercial navigation. These waterways play a crucial role in promoting inland water transport, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to road and rail transport.

NW-10 and its River Association

National Waterway 10 (NW-10) is a significant inland waterway located in the state of Maharashtra. This waterway primarily covers the Vasai Creek, Bassein Creek, Thane Creek, and the waters around the Mumbai Port Trust. Crucially, the designation and operation of NW-10 are closely linked with the water systems that include the Amba river estuary and its connectivity, particularly through Thane Creek, to the Mumbai harbour.

NW-10 connects the industrial areas around Vasai and Thane to the Mumbai Port, facilitating the movement of cargo and goods.

Analysis of Options

• Amba river: This is the correct answer. NW-10 utilizes the water channels, including parts of the estuary and creeks connected to the Amba river system, leading into the Mumbai Port Trust area via Thane Creek.
• Brahmaputra river: The Brahmaputra river is designated as National Waterway 2 (NW-2), primarily flowing through Assam and connecting Sadiya to Dhubri. It is not associated with NW-10.
• Chambal river: The Chambal river is a major tributary of the Yamuna river, located in central India. It is not designated as a national waterway and has no connection with NW-10.
• Yamuna river: The Yamuna river has segments declared as National Waterways, such as NW-70 and NW-71 (part of the Delhi-Kolkata stretch), but it is not linked to NW-10. NW-10 is a distinct waterway system in Maharashtra.

Conclusion

Based on the geographical and navigational significance, National Waterway 10 (NW-10) is intrinsically associated with the water channels connected to the Amba river estuary and Thane Creek, linking the northern Mumbai metropolitan region with the Mumbai Port.