National Waterway-2?
VerifiedAnswer: Sadiya Dhubri Stretch of Braham Putra River(Assam)
Explanation:
National Waterway-2 (NW-2) represents one of India's most significant inland water transportation routes, spanning the Sadiya-Dhubri stretch of the mighty Brahmaputra River in Assam. This waterway holds immense strategic and economic importance for the northeastern region of India.
The Brahmaputra River, which flows through Assam, forms the backbone of this national waterway. Starting from Sadiya in the eastern part of Assam and extending to Dhubri in the western part, this waterway covers approximately 891 kilometers of the river's length. The river's substantial width and depth in this region make it naturally suited for navigation by various types of vessels.
The development of NW-2 is part of India's ambitious plan to enhance inland waterway transportation, which is considered more cost-effective and environment-friendly compared to road and rail transport. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) oversees the development and maintenance of this waterway, ensuring proper navigation facilities and infrastructure development along the route.
Several key features make National Waterway-2 particularly significant:
• Strategic Location: It connects the remote northeastern states with the rest of India, facilitating better integration of this region with the national economy
• Economic Benefits: The waterway enables cost-effective transportation of goods, particularly bulk commodities like coal, cement, and agricultural products
• Environmental Advantages: Water transport produces significantly lower carbon emissions compared to road transport
• Tourism Potential: The scenic beauty of the Brahmaputra valley can be leveraged for river cruise tourism
The government has been investing in infrastructure development along this waterway, including the construction of terminals, jetties, and navigation aids. These developments are expected to boost trade and commerce in the region while providing employment opportunities to local communities.
Understanding National Waterway-2 is crucial for students studying Indian geography, transportation systems, and regional development. It exemplifies how natural water bodies can be utilized for sustainable transportation solutions while promoting economic growth in geographically challenging regions like Northeast India.
