Sitharaman inaugurates 2 landmark infrastructure projects in Guwahati

Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday inaugurated two landmark infrastructure projects in Guwahati — the Gateway of Guwahati Terminal and Jetty and the Brahmaputra Riverfront – Sati Radhika Shaanti Udyan.According to information, these projects symbolise the Central Government’s commitment to revitalising Assam’s riverine transport ecosystem and reconnecting the city with the Brahmaputra through sustainable and people-centric urban transformation.Speaking at the inauguration, Sitharaman described the Gateway of Guwahati Terminal as more than just a transport hub, calling it “a statement of Assam’s progressive vision.” She added that the terminal would boost river-based transport, promote tourism, and open new economic opportunities for the people of Assam.Referring to the riverfront development, she remarked, “The Brahmaputra is the soul of Assam’s civilisation. The State’s resurgence is intrinsically linked to it. By reconnecting the city and its people to the river, this project celebrates both tradition and transformation.”The Finance Minister lauded the Assam Government’s efforts in developing modern, sustainable, and culturally rooted urban spaces. She noted that the Brahmaputra riverfront project was implemented thoughtfully, ensuring that traditional livelihoods were preserved. The historic Uzan Bazar fish market has been maintained within the project, with a dedicated access route provided to facilitate the continued activities of local fishermen.
Highlighting the efficiency of inland water transport, Sitharaman cited a comparative example: while one litre of fuel moves a 24-ton cargo just one kilometre by road, it can move 85 kilometres by rail and 105 kilometres by waterways. She said this demonstrated the economic and environmental superiority of water-based transport systems.The Finance Minister also emphasised the spirit of Centre-State collaboration in Assam’s development. She noted that under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment Scheme, the Centre provides 50-year interest-free loans to States, commending Assam for effectively utilising these funds for planned and productive development.Acknowledging the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Sitharaman said these projects represent the shared goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047 through inclusive and sustainable growth.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, present at the event, hailed the inauguration as a major step in strengthening Assam’s internal water transport network. He said the new terminal, equipped with multimodal connectivity, will significantly enhance the State’s infrastructure and facilitate smoother passenger and cargo movement along the Brahmaputra.Sarma also thanked the Union Finance Minister for her continued support toward Assam’s infrastructural development, particularly in the North Eastern region.During the event, Sitharaman interacted with members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) managing stalls and shops at the Gateway Terminal and Jetty. The ceremony was attended by State Ministers, senior government officials, and several dignitaries.