Nagaland's Waterways to Undergo Significant Development, Aims to Boost Economy and Tourism

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio unveiled initiatives to develop waterways and tourism in Nagaland, focusing on the Tizu Zunki and Doyang River Lake, at a Stakeholder's Conference in Dimapur. The efforts aim to enhance economic growth and maritime employment.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, announced significant initiatives aimed at harnessing the waterways potential of Nagaland during a Stakeholder's Conference in Dimapur. Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, joined Sonowal in unveiling plans to develop Tizu Zunki (National Waterways 101) with joint efforts from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Nagaland's Transport Department.

Rio and Sonowal also highlighted the importance of developing Doyang River Lake for tourism through community jetties and a study on Ro-Pax ferries’ feasibility. These initiatives are expected to boost the state’s tourism potential. The announcements were made during an interactive session attended by Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton and other senior officials from both state and central governments.

Sonowal emphasized the economical, sustainable, and efficient nature of waterways as a mode of transportation, underlining Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the sector. He urged stakeholders, including transporters, traders, and vessel owners, to capitalize on the revamped waterways. The IWAI, through the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, is working on multiple projects to empower the Northeast region’s waterways, including key international linkages.