Cargo vessel sets sail from Assam to Bangladesh, reviving historic waterway trade

Dibrugarh port in upper Assam has resumed cargo services to Bangladesh, signalling a revival of cross-border waterway trade that had remained dormant for generations. The departure of the cargo vessel marks a significant milestone in regional connectivity, as it is the first time since 1947 that a merchant ship carrying goods has sailed from the Assamese port to an international destination.

The resumption of maritime trade through inland waterways is expected to boost commercial links between India and Bangladesh while reducing transportation costs for businesses in the Northeast region. The route leverages the Brahmaputra river system, which provides a natural transport corridor connecting Assam to Bangladesh and eventually to broader regional markets.

Official sources indicated that the development reflects growing efforts to enhance bilateral trade and improve logistics infrastructure in South Asia. The service is expected to facilitate the movement of goods including agricultural products and manufactured items, potentially opening new economic opportunities for traders across both nations.

The initiative comes as part of broader regional infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening connectivity in South and Southeast Asia. Officials noted that the successful resumption of cargo operations could encourage further development of port facilities and inland waterway services in the region.