Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone of an Inland Waterways Transport terminal in Bogibeel of Dibrugarh. This IWT terminal will be created on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. And this tourist-cum-cargo terminal will be part of the National Waterway 2 in the state. It will be developed at a cost of Rs 46.60 crores and is expected to be completed by February next year. Once completed, this terminal will become pivotal for the transportation of both people and cargo. Thus paving the way for the growth of trade and commerce in the entire state. Several other dignitaries were present for this event.
During his speech, the Union minister called it a momentous day for the people of Assam. He said that this project will rejuvenate the inland waterways sector. It will further promote the capital infrastructure of the region. This project is a part of the PM’s vision of re-establishing the waterways as a key mode of transportation. He also mentioned that this project will help in reestablishing Dibrugarh as a major commercial hub of the region. It will also become an important point of contact between upper Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.
This IWT terminal will be equipped with all modern amenities. These include cargo and passenger berths, roads, transit sheds, passenger waiting areas, and truck and other vehicle parking areas. It will also foster an increase in the export and import of cargo via the waterways. As well as boosting the tourism sector of the state with a lower cost involved.
It is also expected to promote several new industries including food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cement. While boosting existing industries like tea, polymer, coal and fertilizers among others. And boosting tourism in areas like Sibsagar, Majuli, Itanagar, Ziro Valley, Pasighat, Roing and Tawang Valley.
