New Delhi, April 12. Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) G Kishan Reddy on Tuesday said waterways development in the North East (NE) would open newer avenues for tourism in the region.
The Minister made this statement while virtually addressing the ‘Waterways Conclave’ in Assam’s Dibrugarh, which started on Monday. Citing example of cruise tourism and river heritage tourism, Reddy, who also holds the tourism portfolio, said, “Waterways development has the potential of being a game changer for the tourism sector.” He further said that development of waterways was essential for leveraging the immense inherent natural potential of the eight NE states. “Waterways can truly prove to be the engine of growth that will bring more investment into the region, generate employment opportunities,” Reddy observed.
The Minister highlighted the various initiatives being undertaken to enhance waterways connectivity in the NE and expressed confidence that it will add a new chapter in the growth story of the region. “PM Gati Shakti initiative will convert the NE into a connectivity hub and ensure the swift movement of cargo on the Brahmaputra river.
Further, 20 National Waterways declared by the Government of India in NE would provide a great support to cheaper and more sustainable transport connectivity in the region,” Reddy said.