Govt explores newer avenues to tap potential of waterways in India, says Sonowal
Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has announced an investment of more than Rs.645 crores to develop 10 waterways projects https://www.meed.com/latest/tenders under the flagship Sagarmala programme.
“The projects will be implemented with 100% financial assistance from the central government to enhance terminals and riverine infrastructure https://ted.europa.eu/en/ along the river Brahmaputra (National Waterways 2) to boost connectivity and foster economic growth,” the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) said on 15 Mar 2024.
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, it said.
Additional passenger terminals https://www.globaltenders.com/ are set to be established in Goalpara, Guijan, Kurua, Dhubri, Disangmukh, and Matmora, catering to the diverse needs of different districts within Assam.
“These 10 projects will enhance transportation efficiency, stimulate industrial development and trade in the region,” added MoPSW.
Speaking on the occasion, Sonowal https://shipmin.gov.in/ said, “We are and have been trying to explore newer avenues and tap the immense potential of waterways in the country.
“Brahmaputra (NW 2) https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/ has been the lifeline for the people of northeast and Assam.”
These Sagarmala projects will be developed building on ferry infrastructure, fleet modernisation, and as well boosting last-mile connectivity, he informed.
With the development of North-Eastern states in focus, including Assam, projects exceeding Rs.1,000 crore have been initiated under the Sagarmala program.
Work is in progress on Rs.760 crore projects in Assam, signifying the government’s dedication to the region’s developments.
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, Koliabhom ora Bridge at Tezpur, Bogibeel Bridge, Dikhow Mukh, Kalongmukh and Uzanbazar in Guwahati.
Development of an Eastern Grid – at Brahmaputra and Barak rivers along with Ganga and Sundarbans – will boost regional integration and trade with South Asia and Eastern South Asia. Eastern Grid can unlock multi-lateral trade potential of US$49 billion, said the Minister.
With ongoing projects like comprehensive development of NW-2, Ship repair facility at Pandu (Rs.208 crore), Jogighopa Inland Waterways terminal (Rs.64 crore), and last mile connectivity to Pandu port through alternative road from Pandu Port to NH-27 (Rs.180 crore), the region is poised for remarkable growth and prosperity in its maritime sector, said Sonowal. Fiinews.com
