Sonowal Announces Three Inland Waterway Projects in Mizoram to Enhance Connectivity and Trade.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has announced three inland waterway projects in Mizoram, targeting the rivers Tlawng and Chhimtuipui. The projects aim to unlock the economic potential of the remote, landlocked northeastern state by providing cost-effective and faster transport.

The initiatives include navigability surveys and infrastructure development, such as terminals and jetties along the Khawthlangtuipui–Tuichawng stretch near the Bangladesh border, with the goal of boosting trade and tourism. Sonowal made the announcement on the sidelines of India Maritime Week, where a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), the Assam government, and private companies for inland waterways development in the region.

Among the key measures, hydrographic and techno-economic feasibility studies for the Khamrang (Mizoram) to Gharmura (Assam) stretch of the Tlawng river will be undertaken at a cost of ₹89 lakh. Detailed project reports have also been submitted for the development of the Chhimtuipui river, with further hydrographic surveys planned for sections like Tupui D to Lomasu at an estimated cost of ₹1.42 crore.

Stage-I construction is already underway for terminals at Thekaduar and Tlabung, along with jetties and passenger boat facilities, to serve southern Mizoram’s Lunglei district along the Khawthlangtuipui–Tuichawng stretch. The estimated cost of this phase is ₹9.82 crore.

These projects are expected to improve connectivity within Mizoram, promote regional trade, and enhance tourism opportunities in the northeastern state.