Waterways projects worth Rs.1126Cr under way in northeast

In a move to enhance waterway connectivity in the North-East region and promote trade with neighboring countries, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has invested ₹1,126 crore in five inland waterways projects. As per the National Waterways Act of 2016, 20 rivers in the North-East have been designated as National Waterways.

The first project focuses on the comprehensive development of National Waterway 2, which is the river Brahmaputra in Assam. This project is estimated to cost ₹474 crore. Another project involves the construction of an alternative road connecting Pandu port in Guwahati to National Highway 27 in Assam, with a total investment of ₹180 crore, which was sanctioned in January. Additionally, a ship repair project at Pandu port is proposed with an estimated cost of ₹208 crore. The comprehensive development of the river Barak along the Indo-Bangladesh protocol route is another project in the pipeline, with a budget of ₹148 crore. Lastly, the development of Dhansiri and Kopili rivers in Assam, which are part of National Waterways 31 and 57, is proposed at a cost of ₹116 crore.

In terms of port infrastructure, both Vishakhapatnam port and Syama Prasad Mookherjee Port have been designated as “notified Gateway Port” to cater to the transit requirements of Nepal’s EXIM cargo on the eastern coast. Additionally, Bangladesh has declared the Vishakhapatnam Port as a “trans-shipment port of call” for its container cargo.

These investments and designations aim to promote connectivity and boost trade in the North-East region, which has significant potential for waterway transportation. Such developments not only benefit the region but also foster economic ties with neighboring countries, opening up new avenues for trade and growth.

Source .