India Enables First Inland Waterways Transit Cargo Movement Between Bhutan and Bangladesh
In a historic first, Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Chemicals & Fertilizers, digitally flagged off a cargo vessel transporting goods from Bhutan to Bangladesh using Indian inland waterways.
First-Ever Tri-Nation Cargo Movement via Indian Waterways
The vessel, MV AAI, operated by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), commenced its journey from Dhubri in Assam to Narayanganj in Bangladesh via the Brahmaputra river and the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route.
This marks the first instance of India serving as a transit corridor for cargo movement between two neighbouring countries through its inland waterways network.
Efficient and Cost-Effective Logistics
- The vessel is carrying 1,000 metric tonnes of stone aggregates
- Equivalent to ~70 truckloads via road transport
- Cargo originated from Phuentsholing (Bhutan), transported to Dhubri by road
Key advantages of the waterway route:
- 8–10 days reduction in transit time
- ~30% lower transportation costs
- Significantly more environment-friendly
Boost to Regional Connectivity & Trade
Speaking on the occasion, Mandaviya termed the development a milestone in regional cooperation, aligned with Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting inland waterways for cargo movement.
The initiative is expected to:
- Strengthen India–Bhutan–Bangladesh trade relations
- Provide an alternative logistics route for Northeast India
- Improve last-mile connectivity and cost efficiency
Infrastructure & Policy Push
Pravir Pandey, Chairman of IWAI, highlighted that:
- Capital dredging has been undertaken to ensure navigable depth
- Maintenance dredging will continue as required
- At least 10 additional National Waterways are under development
Government Initiatives to Boost Inland Waterways
The government is actively promoting inland and coastal shipping through:
- Assured navigation depth and GPS-based systems
- River Information Systems and improved terminals
- Mechanised cargo handling infrastructure
- 40% discount on port charges and priority berthing for coastal vessels
- Regulatory relaxations under the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958.
