The Minister highlighted the importance that Mizoram plays in developing a robust inland water system in North East India. The review was also attended by Minister of State, Department of Transport, Government of Mizoram, TJ Lalnuntluanga and Chief Secretary to the Government of Mizoram, Dr. Renu Sharma. Plans are underway to develop water transport at Khawthilangtuipui (Karnaphuli) – Tuichawng River stretching up to 23 km. The total cost of this project Rs 22.93 crores.

The PSW ministry has sanctioned a total of Rs 6.17 crore under the central sector scheme. The Minister was also briefed on the hydrographic and techno-economic feasibility study carried out on a stretch of 87.136 km between the Tiawng River at Khamrang village in Mizoram and Gharmura in Assam.

A detailed report to develop the IWT at River Chhimtuipui has been submitted. It has now been decided to carry out a detailed hydrographic study and a technical-economic feasibility study on this river from Tupui D to Lomasu extending up to 138.26 km. The cost of this survey is budgeted at Rs 82.30 lakhs.

Sonowal said, “Mizoram plays a crucial role in the development of river transport in the North East. The Prime Minister’s vision is to energize the North East region as a new engine of growth in India. To achieve this, we must make optimal use of our rivers as an economical, fast and ecological means of transport. The economic potential of Mizoram as well as that of the North East can be unleashed by developing our waterways and strengthening our logistical access to the global market.