The Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced an investment of ₹ 4,800 crore to replace the inland waterways of Assam at the Advantage Assam 2.0 summit in Guwahati. The objective of this initiative is to exploit the river system of the state, especially the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers, to promote trade, tourism and sustainable development.
The main attractions include:
₹ 1,500 crore for Green Vasel Transition: ‘Green Boating’ scheme will convert Assam ships into green techniques by 2030.
₹ 315 crore for water metro service: A new service will be started in Guwahati and Dhubri, inspired by the success of Kochi.
₹ 120 crore for the Center for Regional Excellence in Dibrugarh: to promote research and development in the region.
₹ 100 crore for Lighthouse on the banks of the river: Five lighthouse will be developed on the banks of Brahmaputra.
Cruise Terminal in Guwahati: A world class terminal with an investment of ₹ 100 crore.
Additional investment includes ₹ 646 crore for infrastructure under the Sagarmala scheme and various projects to improve Fairway, Dredging and Terminal Facilities on the banks of the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers.
The minister also emphasized the importance of India’s status as a global leader in sustainable development, river tourism and inland waterways transport.
