Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated key inland waterways development projects on National Waterway 2 (NW-2) in Dibrugarh, marking significant progress in the enhancement of inland transport infrastructure in the region.
The projects include the completion of river training works, dredging operations, construction of terminals, and other facilities aimed at improving navigability and enabling efficient cargo movement along the Brahmaputra stretch designated as NW-2. The improvements are expected to enhance connectivity, reduce logistics costs and provide alternative transport options for goods movement in the northeastern states.
In his address at the inauguration event, Sonowal highlighted the importance of the inland waterways sector as an eco-friendly and cost-effective mode of transportation that can complement road and rail networks. He noted that the development of waterborne transport infrastructure is part of the government’s broader strategy to integrate multimodal logistics and shorten supply chains.
The minister said that the upgraded waterways facilities would benefit trade and commerce in the region by enabling larger vessels to operate more reliably throughout the year. Enhanced navigability is also expected to improve accessibility for remote and hinterland areas, facilitating economic opportunities for producers and traders.
Sonowal emphasised that such inland waterways projects align with national goals of promoting sustainable transport, reducing carbon emissions and supporting regional economic development. He reiterated the government’s commitment to completing more infrastructure works on national waterways to boost connectivity and strengthen the logistics ecosystem.
Local officials and stakeholders present at the event welcomed the inauguration of the projects, saying that improved waterways infrastructure could help decongest traditional transport routes, lower freight costs and provide a competitive alternative for bulk goods transportation.
The National Waterway 2 projects in Dibrugarh are part of a series of ongoing efforts to develop the inland waterways network across different regions, aimed at expanding the use of navigable rivers for commercial transport and enhancing multimodal integration.
