“Dilip Saikia credits PM Modi for transforming northeast’s river connectivity, highlighting new waterways, economic growth, and improved transport links for the region.”
Dilip Saikia Credits PM Modi for Transforming Northeast’s River Connectivity
In a strong endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for infrastructure growth, BJP MP Dilip Saikia has credited the Prime Minister for transforming northeast’s river connectivity and unlocking unprecedented opportunities for the region. Speaking at a press event in Guwahati, Saikia highlighted how improved waterways are driving trade, tourism, and socio-economic growth in the northeastern states.
A New Era for Northeast’s River Connectivity
According to Dilip Saikia, the northeastern region has for decades suffered from poor transport networks and underutilized waterways. He pointed out that PM Modi’s government has prioritized river connectivity as part of a broader agenda to integrate the Northeast with the national and global economy.
Under the Jal Marg Vikas Project and other related schemes, several rivers in Assam, Tripura, and other states are now being developed for cargo transport, passenger services, and eco-tourism.
PM Modi’s Vision for Waterway Development
Saikia emphasized that PM Modi’s leadership has brought about a shift in how river connectivity is viewed — from a neglected mode of transport to a strategic economic driver. He cited:
- National Waterway 2 (NW-2) on the Brahmaputra as a major success story.
- Expansion of cargo services connecting Assam with Bangladesh via river routes.
- New passenger ferry services linking remote riverine communities.
This, he said, is transforming northeast’s river connectivity into a sustainable and cost-effective mode of transport.
Boost to Trade and Commerce
The MP pointed out that river transport has slashed logistics costs for businesses in the region. Goods like coal, tea, bamboo, and agricultural produce can now be transported faster and cheaper via waterways compared to road routes.
“Earlier, transporting goods from Assam to Kolkata meant long delays and high costs. Now, river routes through Bangladesh have cut both travel time and expenses significantly,” Saikia said.
Impact on Tourism and Employment
Dilip Saikia also credited PM Modi for recognizing the tourism potential of river connectivity. Cruise services on the Brahmaputra and other rivers have attracted domestic and foreign visitors, creating jobs in hospitality, transport, and allied sectors.
“River cruises in Assam are now world-class experiences,” Saikia remarked. “They are bringing in not just tourists but also investors who see the Northeast as a new economic frontier.”
Linking Remote Communities
For decades, many riverine villages in the Northeast remained isolated due to the lack of reliable bridges or ferry services. According to Saikia, PM Modi’s push for transforming northeast’s river connectivity has provided these communities with new lifelines.
Ferry services now operate more regularly, enabling students to attend schools, patients to reach hospitals faster, and traders to sell their products in urban markets.
Environmental Sustainability of River Transport
Saikia underscored the environmental advantages of river transport over road freight. Waterways produce fewer carbon emissions and reduce traffic congestion on highways. He noted that PM Modi’s policies strike a balance between development and sustainability, ensuring that river dredging and port development are done with ecological safeguards in mind.
International Connectivity and Strategic Importance
One of the most significant aspects of transforming northeast’s river connectivity is the establishment of cross-border river routes with Bangladesh. Saikia stressed that these links not only facilitate trade but also strengthen diplomatic relations with India’s eastern neighbor.
“River routes to Chittagong and Mongla ports in Bangladesh have opened new export possibilities for the Northeast,” Saikia said, adding that this enhances India’s Act East Policy.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While praising PM Modi’s achievements, Saikia acknowledged challenges that still remain:
- Seasonal navigability issues during dry months.
- Need for more modern vessels and infrastructure at river ports.
- Training for local entrepreneurs to leverage river transport opportunities.
He called for continued investment and innovation to ensure the long-term success of the initiative.
Voices from the Ground
Fishermen, traders, and boat operators in Assam have welcomed the changes. Many say that their incomes have doubled since the introduction of better ferry services and cargo routes.
One trader from Dibrugarh shared, “Earlier, I used to send my tea consignments by truck. It was slow and costly. Now, river transport gets it to Kolkata in less than half the time, and I save almost 30% in costs.”
Political and Economic Significance
Analysts note that Dilip Saikia’s praise for PM Modi is also a political message ahead of upcoming elections, showcasing the BJP’s focus on Northeast development. However, beyond politics, the tangible economic benefits of river connectivity are visible and widely acknowledged.
Read More: Skeleton Found Dr Debanjib Sharmah Mystery Deepens After DNA Report