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Centre, Assam sign MoU to boost riverine tourism along Brahmaputra
The project will be implemented through a special purpose vehicle and is estimated to require an investment of approximately ₹45 crore. It is expected to be completed within 12 months.
New Delhi: The central government and Assam on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting riverine tourism along the river Brahmaputra.
The project will be implemented through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and is estimated to require an investment of approximately ₹45 crore ($6 million). It is expected to be completed within 12 months.
The MoU for development of ‘Riverine Based Religious Tourism Circuit’ was signed by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL), Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) and Department of Inland Waterways Transport (DIWT) of Assam government.
Under the MoU, a “Riverine Based Religious Tourism Circuit” will be developed, covering seven historic religious sites located near Guwahati. The identified sites include Kamakhya, Pandunath, Ashwalknata, Doul Govinda, Umananda, Chakreshwar, and Auniati Satra.
The agreement also includes plans for a modern ferry service operating on a “Hop On Hop Off” model, facilitating convenient access for tourists. Additionally, a state-of-the-art waiting lounge will be established at the ferry terminal, enhancing the overall experience for passengers.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the ferry circuit will commence from Hanuman Ghat, Uzan Bazar, reducing the travel time to complete one full circuit to less than 2 hours. SDCL and IWAI will jointly contribute 55% of the project cost, while ATDC will provide the remaining funding. As part of the agreement, DIWT has agreed to provide the usage of Ghats near the temples free of cost.
Union minister for ports, shipping, waterways and AYUSH Sarbananda Sonowal hailed the MoU, emphasizing its positive impact on the tourism sector in Assam.
Speaking on the occasion, Assam’s chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “Today’s signing ceremony is going to usher a new chapter of tourism in the state...The religious tourism will get a boost as the tourists will enjoy the rich spiritual heritage of Guwahati via this wonderful riverine circuit.”
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First Published:19 May 2023, 04:16 PM IST
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