For the first time since Independence, cargo movement from Dibrugarh to a foreign destination is set to resume through the Brahmaputra, marking a significant step in reviving the region’s historic inland waterway trade.

During the British era, the Brahmaputra served as an important trade route, with cargo vessels carrying goods from Dibrugarh to different parts of India and beyond. The upcoming voyage aims to reconnect the city with this historic waterway network.

The newly developed Bogibeel Inland Water Transport Terminal is being prepared to facilitate the movement. Methanol manufactured by Assam Petro-Chemicals Limited (APCL) in Namrup is planned to be transported to Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Two vessels, each capable of carrying 540 tonnes of methanol in 27 containers, will undertake the journey. The vessels are expected to cover around 785 km from Bogibeel to the Bangladesh border in approximately seven days.

The terminal has been equipped with key facilities, including customs infrastructure, a jetty and warehouse, while additional facilities such as a lighthouse and Regional Centre of Excellence are also being developed.

The revival of cargo movement through the Brahmaputra could strengthen regional connectivity, support exports from Assam and create new opportunities for industries and local producers to access international markets.

The development also represents a significant step towards bringing Dibrugarh back onto the inland waterway trade map and strengthening India-Bangladesh connectivity through the Brahmaputra.