Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal reviews key IWT projects; calls for maritime skill development to align with PM Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, reviewed ongoing inland waterway infrastructure projects in Assam and the Northeast, reaffirming the Centre’s commitment with an additional ₹1,000 crore earmarked for completion by 2026. This follows the ₹1,000 crore already sanctioned over the last two years, with ₹300 crore worth of work completed and ₹700 crore slated for completion by 2025.
Sonowal emphasised aligning regional development with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision, urging officials to ensure timely execution and build advanced maritime skillsets in youth. Projects span National Waterways 2 (Brahmaputra) and 16 (Barak), including cruise terminals, electric catamarans, modern jetties, and ship repair facilities. A ₹315 crore Water Metro for Guwahati and Dhubri, and new maritime training hubs in Guwahati and Dibrugarh were also highlighted.
The Dredging Corporation of India is tasked with maintaining a 2.5-meter draft from the Bangladesh border to Pandu, backed by a ₹191 crore allocation.
“Through enhanced infrastructure and skill-building, Assam and the Northeast will emerge as key contributors to India’s maritime growth,” Sonowal said, positioning the region as a crucial gateway in India’s Act East policy.
Source: PIB
