Assam: Centre approves Rs 645 cr for 10 new waterways projects on Brahmaputra

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal on Friday announced a major investment of more than Rs 645 crores to develop 10 waterways projects on the mighty Brahmaputra.

These ten projects under the flagship Sagarmala programme will enhance transportation efficiency, stimulate industrial development and trade in the region.

The projects will be implemented with 100% financial assistance from the central government to enhance terminals and riverine infrastructure along the river Brahmaputra (National Waterways 2) to boost connectivity and foster economic growth.

From the construction of slipways at strategic locations such as Maya Ghat in Dhubri district and Majuli district to the establishment of passenger terminals at Ghagor in North Lakhimpur district and Bahari in Barpeta district, each proposal is meticulously designed to enhance connectivity and facilitate seamless transportation across the region.

Additional passenger terminals are set to be established in Goalpara, Guijan, Kurua, Dhubri, Disangmukh, and Matmora, catering to the diverse needs of different districts within Assam.

Union Minister Sonowal said, “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, we are and have been trying to explore newer avenues and tap the immense potential of waterways in the country. Brahmaputra (NW 2) has been the lifeline for the people of northeast and Assam. Modiji gave us the direction to harness the power of Brahmaputra and develop the waterways to develop an alternative, economical, environmentally sound and effective mode of transportation… These Sagarmala projects will be developed building on ferry infrastructure, fleet modernisation, and as well boosting last-mile connectivity.”

With the development of North-Eastern states in focus, including Assam, projects exceeding Rs 1,000 crore have been initiated under the Sagarmala programme. In Assam alone, projects exceeding Rs 760 crore are currently underway, signifying the government’s dedication to the region’s progress. The MoPSW is also developing River tourism and water sports along Brahmaputra under which seven tourist jetties will be constructed at Oriumghat, Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Koliabhomora Bridge at Tezpur, Bogibeel Bridge, Dikhow Mukh, Kalongmukh and Uzanbazar in Guwahati.

With ongoing projects like Comprehensive development of NW-2, Ship repair facility at Pandu (Rs 208 Cr.), Jogighopa Inland Waterways terminal (Rs 64 Cr.), and last mile connectivity to Pandu port through alternative road from Pandu Port to NH-27 (Rs 180 Cr.), the region is poised for remarkable growth and prosperity in its maritime sector.