Editor
In a significant development, central and Assam government organizations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a riverine-based religious tourism circuit connecting seven sacred sites near Guwahati along the Brahmaputra River. The MoU was signed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Sagarmala Development Company Limited (SDCL), Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC), and the Department of Inland Waterways Transport (DIWT) of the Assam government.
The project aims to create a modern ferry service, adopting a "Hop On Hop Off" concept, allowing tourists to visit seven historic religious sites: Kamakhya, Pandunath, Ashwaklanta, Doul Govinda, Umananda, Chakreshwar, and Auniati Satra. By leveraging waterways, the ferry service is expected to significantly reduce travel time, enabling completion of one complete circuit in less than two hours.
The signing of the MoU marks a milestone for tourism in Assam, as it will boost religious tourism and allow visitors to experience the rich spiritual heritage of Guwahati through this unique riverine circuit. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting the positive impact it will have on tourism in the state.
The project will be executed through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and is estimated to require an investment of ₹45 crore. It is expected to be completed within a period of 12 months. SDCL and IWAI will jointly contribute 55% of the project cost, with the remaining funds provided by ATDC.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, Waterways, and AYUSH, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized the significance of the riverine-based tourism circuit, stating that it will greatly benefit the tourism sector in Assam. He also highlighted the transformative potential of inland waterways, citing examples such as ODC and OWC cargo movement via the Brahmaputra River and the world's longest river cruise, Ganga Vilas.
The MoU signing sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in tourism, leveraging the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Assam through enhanced connectivity and immersive experiences along the Brahmaputra River.