In a proud moment for India’s growing inland waterways network, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk of Bhutan visited the Inland Waterways Transport (IWT) terminal at Jogighopa in Assam’s Bongaigaon district. The visit signifies Bhutan’s confidence in India’s technical prowess and highlights the terminal’s strategic significance as a vital link for Bhutan’s cargo exports to global markets.
The IWT Terminal at Jogighopa, a shining example of India’s commitment to developing modern infrastructure, was inaugurated on 18 February 2025 by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, in the presence of Lyonpo Namgyal Dorji, Minister of Industries, Commerce & Employment, Royal Government of Bhutan. The cargo movement officially commenced the same day, marking a new era of economic connectivity in the region.
The King of #Bhutan , His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited MMLP & IWT terminal at Jogighopa in Assam along with representatives of @mygovassam & @nhidcl offcials. Located at a distance of 91 km from Gelephu, the terminal is crucial for #IndiaBhutan bilateral trade. pic.twitter.com/zVzb1sN7wv
— IWAI (@IWAI_ShipMin) April 19, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier hailed the terminal as “a noteworthy addition in our quest for improving infrastructure as well as encouraging inland waterways for progress and prosperity.” The terminal aligns seamlessly with the ‘Act East’ policy, driving inclusive growth and regional development.
Speaking on the occasion of the royal visit, Union Minister Sonowal stated, “It is a historic moment that the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuk, visited the recently inaugurated IWT Jogighopa terminal as well as the Jogighopa Multi Modal Logistical Park (MMLP). Both projects are aligned with the vision of PM Narendra Modi’s Act East policy for inclusive growth and sustainable development. This visit further deepens the long-standing friendship, trust, and shared prosperity for both India and Bhutan.”
Welcome the visit of His Majesty, King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to the MMLP and IWT Terminal at Jogighopa, Assam, key infra poised to boost trade and connectivity between India and Bhutan. 🇮🇳🤝🇧🇹
A true reflection of Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi ji’s #ActEast… pic.twitter.com/aVPldvSmvy
— Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) April 19, 2025
The terminal is a logistical gem, strategically positioned just 91 km from Gelephu in Bhutan, 108 km from the Bangladesh border, and 147 km from Guwahati, making it an ideal node for strengthening India’s bilateral trade with both Bhutan and Bangladesh. Notably, the Jogighopa terminal is one of the declared Ports of Call under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWT&T) between India and Bangladesh, underscoring its international relevance.
By 2027, the terminal is projected to handle a robust 1.1 million tonnes of cargo annually, showcasing India’s capacity to scale up regional trade infrastructure.
Constructed with an investment exceeding ₹82 crore, the Jogighopa terminal boasts world-class features including:
- A reinforced cement concrete (RCC) jetty with an RCC approach equipped for an Electric Level Luffing (ELL) crane for seamless cargo handling.
- Administrative building
- Customs and immigration offices
- Truck parking area
- 11,000 sqm open storage yard
- 1,100 sqm covered storage facility with full power backup
The terminal is a testament to India’s technical excellence and its ambition to emerge as a leader in sustainable, multimodal transport solutions.
The visit was graced by several dignitaries including Assam Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, Chief Secretary of Assam Ravi Kota, senior officials of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), members of the district administration, and representatives from the Royal Government of Bhutan
This milestone reflects India’s vision of regional cooperation, modern logistics, and economic connectivity, solidifying its role as a trusted partner in South Asia’s progress.
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