Union Minister Launches Key Waterway Projects in Assam

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has inaugurated three significant infrastructure projects along the Brahmaputra River in Assam, aimed at enhancing the region's inland water transport capabilities. These developments include modern Customs and Immigration Complexes at Bogibeel and Dhubri, as well as a renovated IWAI Heritage Building in Dibrugarh. The projects are expected to boost trade, tourism, and logistics in the Northeast, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for accelerated growth. With the Brahmaputra serving as a vital economic corridor, these initiatives promise to transform the region's economic landscape while preserving its rich heritage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 10:40 IST

Major Infrastructure Developments on the Brahmaputra

Dibrugarh, Feb 28: In a significant move aimed at enhancing the economic potential of Northeast waterways, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has inaugurated three pivotal infrastructure projects along the Brahmaputra River, highlighting Assam's crucial role in India's inland water transport initiative.

The newly launched projects consist of advanced Customs and Immigration Complexes located at Bogibeel and Dhubri, alongside the renovated Heritage Building of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) situated near Paltan Bazar in Dibrugarh.

All these facilities are strategically positioned along National Waterway-2 (NW-2), which traverses the Brahmaputra in Assam.

Speaking to a large audience at Chowkidingee field, Sonowal emphasized that these developments mark a significant advancement towards fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for accelerated growth in the Northeast region.

“The Brahmaputra is more than just a river; it represents the lifeblood of Assam and the Northeast, embodying our history, identity, and aspirations. These initiatives reflect our dedication to ‘Vikas and Virasat’, ensuring swift economic development while honoring our rich heritage,” he stated.

Highlighting the importance of upper Assam and Dibrugarh, Sonowal remarked that the area is set to become a pivotal hub for logistics, tourism, and trade.

“For many years, the vast potential of the Brahmaputra has been largely untapped. The previous government, which held power for around 60 years, neglected the development of this inland water transport sector. Today, we are transforming it into a vibrant economic corridor that lowers logistics costs, enhances multimodal connectivity, and empowers local communities,” he added.

As per the National Waterways Act of 2016, 111 rivers, including 20 in the Northeast, have been designated as National Waterways, with the Brahmaputra (NW-2) leading in active development.

Several sections are already operational for both bulk cargo and passenger services, as informed by the minister.

The Bogibeel Customs and Immigration Complex has been established as a modern terminal for tourists and cargo, integrating customs, immigration, and IWAI administrative services into one facility.

This terminal is equipped with dedicated passenger areas, cargo storage, administrative offices, parking, and advanced security systems, along with a 50m x 20m jetty extension and extensive bank protection works to improve berthing capacity and operational stability.

Sonowal mentioned that this facility will facilitate trade under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes, positioning Bogibeel as a strategic entry point for upper Assam.

In a similar vein, the Dhubri Customs and Immigration Complex is expected to enhance regulatory oversight and stimulate export-import activities in western Assam.

With dedicated customs and immigration sections, conference facilities, and staff amenities, Dhubri is anticipated to serve as a crucial link for cross-border trade with Bangladesh and Bhutan, further integrating the Northeast into regional trade networks.

In Dibrugarh, the restored IWAI Heritage Building merges architectural preservation with modern infrastructure improvements. This revamped structure will cater to administrative and operational needs on NW-2 while also becoming a cultural landmark that promotes river cruise tourism along the Brahmaputra.

IWAI chairman Sunil Paliwal stated that these projects signify ongoing efforts to modernize the inland waterways in the region.

“With enhanced fairway development, guaranteed dredging, and new terminal infrastructure, NW-2 is progressively becoming a dependable, year-round navigation channel. The facilities inaugurated today will greatly improve cargo and passenger movement while ensuring smooth regulatory processes,” he remarked.

Vijay Kumar, secretary of the Ports, Shipping and Waterways Ministry, noted the significant achievements in inland waterways under Sonowal's leadership. State ministers Prasanta Phukan, Bimal Borah, and Jogen Mohan were also in attendance.