Agartala: The Inland Waterways Authority of India has stepped up work on two major projects in Tripura that aim to improve regional connectivity and expand the state’s tourism potential. The plans include developing the Gomati river for direct linkage with Bangladesh’s Meghna system and exploring a cruise service on Dumbur Lake in Dhalai district.

The update came after a review meeting chaired by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, who assessed Inland Water Transport projects across all northeastern states.

Sonowal said a project worth Rs.24.53 crore is already in progress to turn the Gumti stretch into a navigable waterway connected to Bangladesh. The work includes creating a channel, building nine floating pontoon terminals, strengthening riverbanks, and installing navigational aids.

He added that a feasibility study is underway for a cruise ship on Dumbur Lake to support tourism and leisure travel.

According to Sonowal, these initiatives reflect the Centre’s focus on expanding river-based infrastructure in the Northeast. He said improved waterways would open new economic routes, support tourism, and deepen cross-border trade. The minister noted that the Centre plans to invest over Rs.5,000 crore in inland water transport across the region in the coming years.