Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Visits Pandu Port Complex
On October 28, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, visited the Pandu Port Complex in Guwahati, Assam. He reviewed the construction of Northeast India’s first ship repair facility and an elevated road corridor.
Development Projects Along Brahmaputra
The minister met with senior officials from the Ministry and the Inland Waterways Authority of India to assess projects along the Brahmaputra River, also known as National Waterways 2. These projects, with a total investment of Rs 645 crore, aim to enhance river tourism, public transportation, and cargo movement.
Key Projects
Sonowal highlighted 10 key projects, including slipways at Majuli and Dhubri, and new passenger terminals at Ghagor and Bahari. The ship repair facility, developed by Hooghly-Cochin Shipyard Limited, involves an investment of Rs 208 crore.
Infrastructure Enhancements
The minister also reviewed the Rs 180 crore investment for last-mile connectivity to Pandu Port via an alternative road to NH27. He emphasized the strategic importance of Pandu for Northeast waterways and the benefits of the new ship repair facility.
Additional Developments
Sonowal mentioned ongoing projects in Assam worth over Rs 760 crore, including the construction of the Majuli bridge. The government is also developing river tourism and water sports along the Brahmaputra, with seven tourist jetties planned.
Doubts Revealed
Sarbananda Sonowal -: Sarbananda Sonowal is an Indian politician who is currently serving as a Union Minister. He has also been the Chief Minister of Assam, a state in Northeast India.
Pandu Port -: Pandu Port is a river port located in Guwahati, Assam, on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. It is an important hub for transportation and trade in the region.
Ship Repair Facility -: A ship repair facility is a place where ships are fixed and maintained. This is important to keep ships in good condition for safe travel and transport.
Brahmaputra River -: The Brahmaputra River is one of the major rivers in India, flowing through the northeastern part of the country. It is very important for transportation, agriculture, and as a water source.
Hooghly-Cochin Shipyard Limited -: Hooghly-Cochin Shipyard Limited is a company in India that builds and repairs ships. It is involved in developing the ship repair facility at Pandu Port.
Slipways -: Slipways are ramps on the shore where ships are built or repaired. They help in moving ships in and out of the water easily.
Passenger Terminals -: Passenger terminals are places where people board or get off ships. They are like bus stops or train stations, but for boats and ships.