60-70% of Development Work on National Waterways 1 & 2 Completed: Sarbananda Sonowal

The development of India’s National Waterways (NW) is progressing at a remarkable pace, with substantial work completed on both National Waterway 1 (NW-1) and National Waterway 2 (NW-2), according to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. In his recent update to the Lok Sabha, Sonowal highlighted that over 60% of physical and financial progress has been achieved in the ongoing works for these vital waterway systems, which are essential for enhancing India’s inland water transport and boosting regional economies.

National Waterway 1, covering the Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly River System from Haldia to Allahabad, has seen 61% progress, with significant milestones such as the construction of multi-modal terminals at Varanasi, Sahibganj, and Haldia. The development also includes the new navigational lock at Farakka and modernisation of the old lock gates. These upgrades are expected to increase the capacity of the waterway, making it more efficient for cargo transportation. Similarly, National Waterway 2, spanning the Brahmaputra River from Dhubri to Sadiya, has made significant strides, with over 71% of the work now completed. Key components of this project include the construction of cargo terminals at Bogibeel and Jogighopa, the development of access roads to the Pandu Port, and ship repair facilities at Guwahati. These developments are crucial for strengthening the connectivity and economic activities in the northeastern region of India.

The government is also working on other waterways projects, including NW-16 and the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, with around 16% of work completed. This involves constructing terminals at Sonamura, Badarpur, and Karimganj, as well as procurement of dredging and surveying equipment. Furthermore, substantial progress has been made on the development of 23 additional National Waterways (NW-3, NW-4, NW-5, and others), with nearly 48% of the work completed. These projects include improving fairways, terminal infrastructure, and navigational safety systems, contributing to India’s broader goals of enhancing inland water transport and connectivity. The ambitious development of these waterways is set to revolutionize India’s shipping and transport sectors, reduce logistical costs, and promote sustainable growth through eco-friendly transport options.