Will the Centre Invest an Additional Rs 1,000 Crore for Inland Waterways in Northeast by 2026?
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Synopsis
The Indian government is making a substantial investment to bolster waterway infrastructure in Assam and the Northeast, with a commitment of Rs 1,000 crore by 2026. This initiative aims to enhance cargo movement and promote economic growth in the region, aligning with the vision of a self-reliant India. Stay tuned for more updates!
Key Takeaways
- Central government is investing Rs 1,000 crore in inland waterways.
- Projects targeted for completion by 2026.
- Focus on enhancing cargo and passenger movement.
- Improvement of last-mile connectivity.
- Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
New Delhi, May 19 (NationPress) The central government is set to significantly enhance the waterway infrastructure in Assam and the northeast by investing Rs 1,000 crore in upcoming projects aimed for completion by 2026, as announced by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Monday.
Over the past two years, an investment exceeding Rs 1,000 crore has already been made, with Rs 300 crore worth of projects successfully completed.
“After reviewing the ongoing initiatives in the region, we are on schedule to finalize the remaining Rs 700 crore projects by the conclusion of 2025,” stated the minister during a meeting with senior officials to discuss ongoing projects in Assam and the northeast.
He emphasized the importance of timely project completion aligning with the broader vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Viksit Bharat.
“The northeast is the utmost priority for PM Narendra Modi ji, and our efforts in the region must align with the vision of Viksit Bharat,” asserted Sonowal.
“These initiatives are designed to enhance cargo and passenger movement, improve last-mile connectivity, foster economic development in the northeast, and resonate with the overarching goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat through sustainable and inclusive transport solutions,” he added.
The central government is actively pursuing vital infrastructure projects along NW2 (Brahmaputra) and NW16 (Barak), which include constructing passenger vessels of various capacities, terminal facilities, and capacity-building programs.
Sonowal also evaluated the progress of the proposed Inland Water Transport (IWT) project at Doyang Lake and examined the potential of Noune and Shilloi Lakes in Nagaland for water sports and tourism development.
Feasibility studies for IWT development on the Tiawng and Chhimtuipui rivers in Mizoram, and on Umiam Lake and the Ummgot River (NW106) in Meghalaya, were also reviewed.
“Since 2014, the Modi government has rejuvenated this previously overlooked mode of transport, particularly via the Brahmaputra (NW2) and Barak (NW16) rivers. Initiatives like Jalvahak are motivating businesses to embrace this economical, efficient, and eco-friendly transport method, alleviating the burden on road and rail, and positioning Assam as a key player in India’s quest for a self-reliant economy by 2047,” remarked the minister.
Sonowal also highlighted advancements on the proposed Water Metro services in Guwahati and Dhubri, which involve a Rs 315 crore investment and the construction of two electric catamarans by Cochin Shipyard Ltd.
Point of View
The government's commitment to enhancing inland waterways in the Northeast reflects a crucial investment in regional development and connectivity. This initiative is anticipated to significantly improve logistics and promote economic growth, aligning with the broader national agenda for self-reliance and sustainable development.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment planned for the inland waterways in the Northeast?
The government plans to invest a total of Rs 1,000 crore for developing inland waterways in the Northeast by 2026.
What are the main objectives of this investment?
The primary objectives include enhancing cargo and passenger movement, improving last-mile connectivity, and promoting economic growth in the Northeast.
Which rivers are included in the projects?
The projects focus on the Brahmaputra (NW2) and Barak (NW16) rivers, among others.
When is the completion date for the remaining projects?
The government aims to complete the remaining projects by the end of 2025.
How does this align with national initiatives?
This investment aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on sustainable and inclusive transport solutions.
