Foundation Stone Laid For Single-Lane Bridge On Ichamati River In West Bengal

Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shantanu Thakur has laid the foundation stone for a single-lane bridge over the Ichamati River in Swarupnagar in North 24 Parganas district in West Bengal.

The bridge, to be constructed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) at an estimated cost of Rs 16 crore, aims to ensure safer transit and uninterrupted river navigation, according to an official statement.

Speaking at the event held on Saturday (4 January), Thakur emphasised the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and empowering the waterways network in the state.

Thakur also announced plans for another bridge at Taranipur, which is being actively considered under the Sagarmala Project.

This bridge is expected to cost Rs 136.20 crore, further bolstering connectivity in the region.

The minister highlighted the government’s broader initiatives for promoting inland water transport, including the development of National Waterways 44.

This project includes dredging operations and the installation of navigational aids to support sustainable development and improve connectivity in the region.

Thakur said cargo traffic on national waterways has witnessed an exponential growth from 18 million tonnes in 2014 to 133 million tonnes at the end of FY2023-24.

In addition, the release mentioned efforts to ease traffic congestion at the Ghojadanga, Bhomra, and Petrapole integrated check posts (ICPs).

A joint technical committee comprising representatives from India and Bangladesh has been formed to conduct a feasibility study on the navigability of the Ichamati River.

The committee will explore its inclusion as a new route under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWT&T).

The proposed Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR), spanning 170.38 km, will connect Hemnagar, Kalanchi, and Khedapara, the statement added.

This initiative aims to enhance cross-border connectivity and trade between the two nations.

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