Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has announced exciting plans to boost river tourism and inland waterways in Assam and Northeast India. These projects aim to position the region as a major hub for water travel and sailing adventures. During the Water Voyage Northeast 2025 conference in Guwahati, Minister Sonowal shared that two luxury cruise ships are being built on the Brahmaputra River. These ships, costing Rs 250 crore, are currently under construction at the Hooghly Cochin Shipyard in Howrah and are expected to launch in 2027 as part of the government's Cruise Bharat Mission. "The Brahmaputra is more than a river; it’s our lifeline," said Sonowal. "By developing modern cruise terminals, ship repair centers, and skill training institutes, we are unlocking the full potential of this mighty river." He also highlighted that over Rs 1,000 crore has been invested in improving inland waterway infrastructure in the Northeast. Out of this, Rs 300 crore worth of projects are already finished, and the rest are nearing completion. Notably, a Rs 239 crore ship repair facility at Pandu will become operational by 2026 — the first of its kind in the region. Additionally, a Rs 180 crore approach road connecting NH-27 to Pandu Port will be ready by September 2025. The minister also announced plans for Rs 299 crore worth of tourist jetties at key locations like Guijan, Neamati, Bishwanath Ghat, and Silghat to attract more cruise tourism. Plus, a Rs 188 crore Regional Centre of Excellence in Dibrugarh will help train 5,000 maritime professionals, boosting the region's expertise in water transport. Assam currently operates 14 of India’s 25 river cruise vessels, and international recognition is growing. Recently, Forbes ranked the Ganga river cruise among the top 10 in the world, and Sonowal expressed confidence that Assam will soon become a global river cruise destination. The Cruise Bharat Mission, launched last year, aims to build 100 river cruise terminals and double passenger numbers by 2029, making river tourism more accessible and popular. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the region is clear — he wants the Northeast to be a key part of India’s maritime future. Union Minister Sonowal emphasized that the youth of Assam will play a vital role in this growth, helping India boost its reputation as a major maritime power. This development plan signals a bright future for water tourism in Assam and the Northeast, promising new opportunities and economic growth for the region.
