Sonowal Launches Inland Waterways Projects on Brahmaputra (NW-2) in Assam

New Customs Complexes at Bogibeel and Dhubri to Boost River Trade Connectivity

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated three key inland waterways infrastructure projects on National Waterway 2 in Assam, reinforcing the Centre’s focus on river-based transport and cross-border trade. The projects were unveiled in Dibrugarh and aim to enhance cargo movement, improve logistics efficiency and support regional economic integration.

Bogibeel Customs and Immigration Complex

The newly developed Customs and Immigration Complex at Bogibeel functions as a combined tourist and cargo terminal. It houses customs, immigration and Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) offices within a unified facility. Equipped with arrival and departure halls, cargo storage zones, administrative blocks and integrated security systems, the complex is designed to facilitate smoother trade under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes.

By minimising documentation delays and improving operational coordination, the facility is expected to strengthen the Brahmaputra’s role as a commercial corridor.

Dhubri Trade Gateway

The Dhubri Customs and Immigration Complex, located near the Bangladesh border, is positioned to expand export-import operations in western Assam. The upgraded infrastructure aims to enhance compliance standards, lower freight costs and promote inland water transport as a competitive trade alternative.

Heritage Restoration at Dibrugarh

The renovated IWAI Heritage Building in Dibrugarh integrates architectural preservation with modern administrative functions. Apart from supporting river transport operations, it is expected to promote tourism while conserving the historical riverfront character.

Important Facts for Exams

• National Waterway-2 refers to the River Brahmaputra.

• The National Waterways Act, 2016 declared multiple rivers as National Waterways.

• The Indo-Bangladesh Protocol facilitates inland water cargo movement.

• IWAI functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

These initiatives reflect a broader strategy to strengthen multimodal connectivity in the Northeast, reduce logistics costs and advance India’s Act East policy through sustainable inland water transport.