'Transformation Via Transportation': Dhubri Port In Assam To Undergo Infrastructure Upgrades, To Unlock EXIM Trade Potential

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has announced that plans are underway to build a new warehouse and road to cater to stakeholders from Bhutan and Bangladesh at the Dhubri Port.

Dhubri Port is a river port in Assam. This initiative is expected to improve the infrastructure at Dhubri Port and facilitate efficient trade activities between India, Bhutan and Bangladesh.

Sonowal attended the stakeholders meeting organised by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) aimed at enhancing the Export-Import (EXIM) trade potential at the Dhubri port.

The meeting was attended by senior officials of IWAI, including Sanjay Bandopadhyay, Chairman of IWAI and Inland Waterways Transport, government of Assam, as well as various stakeholders and business groups from Bangladesh and Bhutan.

The objective of the meeting was to address the challenges faced by the business interest groups and optimise the utilisation of Dhubri Port.

"Given the immense potential of Dhubri port, we are also considering building a modern integrated office complex where offices of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Home Affair will be present. A new warehouse as well as a new road are also being considered to be built at Dhubri port which will not only make it an attractive proposition but also allows our stakeholders an opportunity to unlock mutual growth in the region," Sonowal added.

The 'Transformation via Transportation' vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to revive the riverine system of India, which serves as an effective alternative mode of communication for both cargo and passenger traffic.

Investing in the infrastructure to ensure a smooth conduit via inland waterways promises to be the most cost-effective, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

The central government identified 21 rivers of the Northeast as National Waterways and committed to investing in infrastructure development and providing a conducive environment for stakeholders' mutual growth and development.

Some of the concerns raised were about the capacity enhancement of the weigh bridge, installation of a movable conveyor, and the need to explore business 24/7 for the swift movement of heavy vehicles.

They also discussed dredging requirements, particularly during dry seasons, for smooth passage of vessels. Additionally, they conveyed during the meeting that the digitalisation of all customs processes will take place at Dhubri Port, and it is likely that the port at Jogighopa will be operational this year.

Dhubri port plays a vital role in unlocking the trade potential of the region, and Sonowal is optimistic that it will regain its past glory under Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.