The Central Government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is launching a significant initiative to develop the Brahmaputra River as a multi-functional economic corridor. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, is leading this agenda, which integrates various sectors including transportation, trade, tourism, and river management.

This initiative was reviewed during a meeting of the High Powered Review Board (HPRB) held in Guwahati, Assam, where participants included ministers, technical experts, and state representatives. The discussions primarily focused on improving scientific river basin planning, enhancing flood control measures, and promoting sustainable water resource management throughout the Northeast.

The meeting underscored the necessity for better coordination among state governments located within the river basin and the adoption of modern technologies, such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), and hydrological modelling. These technologies are expected to facilitate comprehensive management of water resources in the region.

Investments and Projects in Assam

In Assam, the government has completed numerous projects worth roughly ₹751 crore. Key infrastructures include terminals at Pandu, Dhubri, and Jogighopa, in addition to the development of floating jetties and improved shore facilities. Ongoing projects in the state are estimated to exceed ₹1,100 crore and involve fairway development, ship repair facilities, tourist jetties, and the establishment of a Regional Centre of Excellence in Dibrugarh.

Union Minister Sonowal welcomed the Union Government’s initiative to launch the State Water Reforms Framework (SWRF), which will enhance sustainable water governance and reform programmes across various states. He stressed that developing the Brahmaputra is crucial for creating a resilient river ecosystem that promotes connectivity, commerce, and community welfare.

In addition, Sonowal highlighted the importance of integrated river basin planning that includes flood management, erosion control, dredging, and infrastructural development, which are essential for maintaining year-round navigability and fostering long-term economic growth in the region.

Future Prospects and Policy Revisions

Looking ahead, the government plans to invest nearly ₹4,800 crore in future projects throughout the Northeast, focusing on community jetties, cargo vessels, dredgers, and cruise terminals. These projects aim to enhance last-mile connectivity, improve logistics efficiencies, and generate employment opportunities in riverine areas.

Furthermore, the Brahmaputra Board is being transformed into a modern, technology-focused river basin organisation. Proposed changes include implementing digital governance systems, data-driven project monitoring, and revitalising research bodies such as the North Eastern Hydraulic and Allied Research Institute (NEHARI).

The government is positioning the Brahmaputra as a critical component of its Act East Policy, which aims to facilitate cross-border connectivity and regional trade. With the growing emphasis on inland waterways as an alternative to road and rail transport, the sector is witnessing substantial growth, significantly enhancing its role within the logistics chain.

Since 2014, the inland water transport sector has expanded considerably, with cargo movement rising from 18 million metric tonnes to an anticipated 218 million metric tonnes by 2025-26, reflecting the increasing importance of this transport mode in enhancing economic activity within the region.

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