PM Modi to inaugurate Ro-Pax water transport facility in Assam: 10 points

The inauguration is part of the launch of Mahabahu-Brahmaputra
The programme will also include laying the foundation stone of Dhubri Phulbari bridge and perform Bhumi Pujan for construction of Majuli bridge

In order to improve connectivity and water transportation in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate a series of infrastructure projects in the state on Thursday, including the Ro-Pax vessel operations between Neamati-Majuli Island, North Guwahati-South Guwahati and Dhubri-Hatsingimari.

The inauguration is part of the launch of Mahabahu-Brahmaputra. The programme will also include laying the foundation stone of Dhubri Phulbari bridge and perform Bhumi Pujan for construction of Majuli bridge.

Here are the key things to know about Ro-Pax inauguration

What is Ro-Pax: The Ministry of Shipping has launched a roll on-roll off cum passenger ferry service called Ro-Pax. It is a water transport service project.

Reduced distance: The Ro-Pax operation between Neamati and Majuli will reduce the total distance of 420 km that is currently being travelled by vehicles to only 12 km, resulting in a substantial impact on the logistics of small-scale industries of the region.

Travel time: The Ro-Pax ferry services cut travel time by providing connectivity between banks.

Pax vessels: Vessels namely, MV Rani Gaidinliu and MV Sachin Dev Burman, shall become operational.

Introduction of Ro-Pax vessel MV JFR Jacob between North and South Guwahati will reduce travelling distance of around 40 Km to a mere 3 Km. Introduction of MV Bob Khathing between Dhubri and Hatsingimari will reduce travelling distance of 220 Km to 28 Km, thus resulting in a huge saving of travel distance and time.

A permanent Inland Water Transport Terminal will also be built at Jogighopa under the programme, which will connect with the multi-modal logistics park also coming up there. These jetties will promote river cruise tourism, generate local employment and also generate growth for local businesses.

This terminal will help in reducing traffic on the Siliguri Corridor towards Kolkata and Haldia.