Mizoram eyes Inland Water Transport to boost connectivity

AIZAWL : Transport Minister Vanlalhlana said that the Inland Water Transport would solve all the transportation problems of Mizoram. He made this statement at the Inland Waterway Development Council (IWDC) meeting on Friday in Kaziranga, Assam, chaired by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.

Speaking at the event, Vanlalhlana said that Mizoram’s hilly terrain has posed considerable challenges for the movement of goods and people historically. Though there are no large navigable rivers in the state, he insisted on using small waterways to enhance connectivity.  Inland water transport, even on a smaller scale, can significantly improve connectivity and alleviate transportation difficulties in Mizoram, he stated, as per an official release.

The minister explained that the inland water transport portfolio had been handed over to Mizoram’s transport department since 2019, and ever since then, the state has initiated measures to develop its waterways. He noted that welfare and benefits for the local community would be considered on priority.

He further pointed out that the Tuirial Dam in the Kolasib district near the Assam border is a potential site for river cruise tourism. He further said that the dam could be a feasible means of transporting goods and passengers, thus further consolidating the state’s infrastructure.

The IWDC met to discuss approaches for improving regional connectivity through the waterways with Mizoram’s geographic challenges and opportunities as a topic of discussion.