Minister Shantanu Thakur Flags Off Inaugural Cargo Vessels from Maia Inland Customs Port to Bangladesh’s Sultanganj Port

In a significant development fostering enhanced connectivity and cooperation between India and Bangladesh, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur, ceremoniously flagged off the first trial cargo vessels from Maia Inland Customs Port, West Bengal, to Sultanganj Port in Bangladesh.

The maiden voyage of cargo vessels laden with stone aggregates signifies a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, reflecting a concerted effort towards bolstering trade and connectivity between the two neighboring nations. The Bangladesh-flagged vessel M V Desh Bangla embarked on its journey carrying stone aggregates, symbolizing the commencement of this collaborative endeavor, underlining the shared vision of prosperity and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

Speaking at the event, Minister Shantanu Thakur emphasized the transformative potential of India’s inland waterways sector, attributing the milestone to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the proactive approach of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal. The trial movement from Maia to Sultanganj through IBP route no. 5 & 6 is poised to redefine water-based transportation between India and Bangladesh, offering a shorter and more efficient route for cargo transit.

The flagging-off ceremony, organized by the Inland Waterways Authority of India, witnessed the participation of esteemed dignitaries, including representatives from the Bangladesh High Commission in Kolkata and senior officials from various governmental bodies. The event underscored the collaborative efforts aimed at maximizing the potential of India’s inland waterways, facilitating seamless trade and commerce.

Highlighting the significant strides made in the inland water transport (IWT) sector over the past decade, Chairman of Inland Waterways Authority of India, Vijay Kumar, emphasized the pivotal role of Maia Terminal in invigorating trade, particularly with India’s neighboring countries and the North Eastern States. The operationalization of Maia Terminal is poised to stimulate economic growth and regional development, providing new avenues for trade and commerce.

The initiative is part of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways’ broader agenda to enhance connectivity and promote water-based transportation infrastructure. With several infrastructure projects underway on National Waterways 1, Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, and NW2, the government aims to strengthen connectivity with Bangladesh and the North Eastern Region through waterways.

Moreover, the trial shipment of cargo on the Maia-Aricha route underscores the expanding potential of water-based transportation, laying the foundation for enhanced connectivity and cooperation between India and Bangladesh. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy, emphasizing the strategic importance of fostering closer ties with neighboring nations.

The event also shed light on the significant developmental initiatives undertaken in West Bengal’s maritime and inland waterways sector under the Sagarmala Programme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. With numerous projects aimed at enhancing port connectivity and improving operational efficiency, West Bengal has emerged as a key contributor to India’s maritime infrastructure development.

Looking ahead, India aims to increase the modal share of inland water transport to 5% by 2030 under the Maritime India Vision (MIV)-2030. With a focus on operationalizing new National Waterways (NWs) and implementing key initiatives outlined in Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the government is committed to realizing the full potential of India’s inland waterways, promoting sustainable and efficient transportation solutions for economic growth and development.