The Government of India has initiated four major inland water transport projects worth ₹526 crore in Assam to strengthen infrastructure on the National Waterway 2.

The projects are being implemented by the Inland Waterways Authority of India, which operates under the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Key Projects Launched

1. Elevated Road Corridor – Pandu Port to NH-27

• Investment: ₹180 crore.
• Connects Pandu Port with the national highway network.

Objective

• Solve last-mile connectivity issues between river transport and road transport.
• Enable faster cargo movement and reduce congestion in Guwahati.

2. Cruise Terminal at Biswanath Ghat

• Designed to enhance river cruise tourism on the Brahmaputra.
• Expected to generate employment in tourism, handicrafts, and hospitality sectors.

3. Regional Centre of Excellence at Bogibeel

• Investment: ₹188 crore.
• First maritime skill development centre in Northeast India.

Key Features

• Train over 5,000 students annually in:
  • Vessel operations
  • Inland navigation
  • Maritime logistics
• Promote research and training for inland waterways workforce.

4. Cruise Terminal at Neamati

• Part of a broader plan to develop cruise tourism along the Brahmaputra corridor.
• The combined cost of the cruise terminals at Biswanath Ghat and Neamati is ₹158 crore.

Policy and Strategic Context

These projects align with national initiatives such as:

• National Waterways Act 2016, which expanded inland waterways across India.
• Jal Marg Vikas Project, aimed at improving navigation infrastructure.
• Act East Policy, where the Northeast serves as a strategic gateway.

Significance

• Strengthens low-cost and environment-friendly transportation.
• Boosts trade logistics along the Brahmaputra river corridor.
• Promotes river tourism and local livelihoods.
• Develops skilled manpower for India’s growing maritime sector.

Exam Hook:

Consider the following statements:

1. National Waterway 2 corresponds to the Brahmaputra river.
2. The Inland Waterways Authority of India functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
3. Inland waterways are considered a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of transport.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

One-line Wrap:
The new inland waterway projects aim to transform the Brahmaputra into a major logistics and tourism corridor for Assam and Northeast India.

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