Assam’s inland waterways sector received investment of over ₹4,800 crore. This initiative was announced by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, during the Advantage Assam 2.0 investment summit in Guwahati. The investment aims to unlock the potential of Assam’s intricate river systems, focusing on the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers. The government envisions these waterways as a catalyst for economic growth, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of a developed India by 2047.
Investment Overview
The investment includes various projects aimed at enhancing the inland waterways infrastructure. A portion is allocated for the transition to Green Vessels by 2030 under the ‘Harit Nauka’ scheme. This initiative promotes sustainability in maritime transport. Additionally, ₹1,500 crore is earmarked for cruise tourism and cargo handling capacity improvements by 2027-28.
Infrastructure Development
Key infrastructure projects include the construction of jetties at Silghat, Bishwanath Ghat, Neamati Ghat, and Guijan. A new Regional Office building and guest house in Guwahati are also planned. The development of a Ship Repair Facility at Pandu is underway with an investment of ₹375 crore. The Dredging Corporation of India has been tasked with maintaining a fairway depth of 2.5 meters along the Brahmaputra.
Riverine Tourism and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
The government is focusing on riverine tourism as a vital economic driver. Plans include developing a Water Metro Service in Guwahati and Dhubri, inspired by the Kochi Metro Service. Two Electric Catamarans will also be introduced to promote eco-friendly transport. A world-class cruise terminal in Guwahati is expected to enhance the region’s tourism appeal.
Future Developments and Projects
The investment plan outlines several future projects. This includes the establishment of Riverine Lighthouses at five key locations along the Brahmaputra. An estimated ₹646 crore is allocated for riverine infrastructure under the Sagarmala Scheme. Additionally, procurement of dredging equipment and construction of floating terminal facilities are planned for the Barak River.
Role of the Inland Waterways Authority of India
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is the nodal agency executing these projects. It oversees investments of ₹1,010 crore for the development of national waterways in Assam. This includes new terminals at Bogibeel and Jogighopa to facilitate trade and commerce.
Questions for UPSC –
- Critically discuss the significance of inland waterways in India’s overall transport strategy.
- Examine the role of sustainable development in the transformation of Assam’s inland waterways.
- Estimate the potential economic impacts of riverine tourism on Assam’s local communities.
- Point out the challenges faced by the Inland Waterways Authority of India in implementing infrastructure projects.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically discuss the significance of inland waterways in India’s overall transport strategy.
- Inland waterways are cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives to road and rail transport.
- They help decongest existing transport systems, improving overall efficiency in logistics.
- Utilizing waterways aligns with India’s vision of sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions.
- Inland waterways enhance regional connectivity, especially in remote areas, encouraging economic growth.
- Investment in this sector supports the government’s goal of becoming a global trade hub by 2047.
2. Examine the role of sustainable development in the transformation of Assam’s inland waterways.
- The ‘Harit Nauka’ scheme promotes the transition to Green Vessels, reducing environmental impact.
- Sustainable practices in dredging and infrastructure development minimize ecological disruption.
- Riverine tourism initiatives encourage eco-friendly transport options, boosting local economies.
- Investment in sustainable infrastructure supports long-term economic viability and environmental health.
- Government policies emphasize balancing economic growth with ecological preservation in waterway management.
3. Estimate the potential economic impacts of riverine tourism on Assam’s local communities.
- Riverine tourism can create job opportunities in hospitality, guiding, and transport services.
- Increased tourist footfall can stimulate local businesses, enhancing income for communities.
- Development of infrastructure like jetties and terminals can improve local economies and accessibility.
- Promoting cultural heritage through tourism can encourage community pride and preservation efforts.
- Revenue generated from tourism can be reinvested in community development and public services.
4. Point out the challenges faced by the Inland Waterways Authority of India in implementing infrastructure projects.
- Funding and resource allocation can be inconsistent, impacting project timelines and completion.
- Environmental concerns may lead to resistance from local communities and regulatory hurdles.
- Geographical challenges, such as seasonal flooding, can complicate construction and maintenance efforts.
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders, including state governments and local authorities, can be complex.
- Technical expertise in managing waterway systems may be limited, hindering effective project execution.
