Modi Govt Unveils ₹5,000 Cr Waterways Boost for Northeast: Sarbananda Sonowal

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced a ₹5,000-crore initiative to enhance waterways in Northeast India, with the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project at its core. The project, linking Kolkata to Mizoram via Myanmar, aims to boost regional trade, reduce dependence on the Siliguri Corridor, and enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia. Operational by 2027, it will benefit Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. The government also plans 100 barges, dredgers, Water Metros, and cruise tourism. Additionally, 50,000 youths will be trained in maritime skills. Sonowal emphasized the project aligns with PM Modi’s vision for inclusive growth and regional empowerment in the Northeast.