Revived waterways, modern ports, and seamless connectivity mark Northeast’s logistics growth under PM Modi’s leadership.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming Northeast India into a hub of development, particularly in logistics, ports, and supply chain infrastructure. Speaking at a press conference, Sonowal highlighted the achievements of the past decade, driven by a 300% increase in the region’s budget allocation, from ₹36,108 crore in 2014 to ₹94,680 crore in FY 2023-24.
A cornerstone of this transformation is the revitalisation of inland waterways, positioning the Brahmaputra (National Waterway 2) as a key trade route under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route. This initiative has enabled smoother trade with neighbouring nations, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, while unlocking global market access.
Infrastructure development has been a priority:
- Waterways: A fairway spanning 891 km on the Brahmaputra is being developed to ensure navigability with specified depths.
- Ports and Terminals: Major projects include a ₹208 crore ship repair facility at Pandu Port, an elevated road linking Pandu Port to NH27 at ₹180 crore, and RCC terminals at Pandu, Dhubri, Bogibeel, and Jogighopa. Floating jetties at 11 locations are under construction, alongside a nearly completed multi-modal terminal at Jogighopa.
- Riverine Tourism: Tourist jetties at Biswanath, Neamati, Guijan, and Silghat aim to bolster tourism along the Brahmaputra, inspired by the success of the Ganga Vilas cruise.
In addition to logistics, the region has witnessed significant advancements in national highways (a 28% expansion), railways (a 370% increase in the budget and 100% electrification of broad gauge lines), and airport connectivity (growing from 9 to 17 operational airports).
Sonowal also highlighted progress in delivering welfare to remote villages, including piped water for over 7000 villages and enhanced digital connectivity with widespread 4G access. Organic farming received a boost, with 1.55 lakh hectares utilised for sustainable agriculture, and over 4,016 km of roads are under construction.
“The Northeast is now a growth engine for India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision,” said Sonowal, commending PM Modi’s focus on good governance and developmental politics. He contrasted this progress with decades of neglect under previous governments, calling the transformation “unprecedented.”
With a blend of modern infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and peace-driven policies, the Northeast is emerging as a vital logistics and supply chain hub, solidifying its role in India’s economic resurgence.
