Patna: A major milestone in India’s inland water transport sector is set to be achieved as cargo tug Trishul, accompanied by its two barges Dikhu and Ajay, nears the completion of a 2,350-kilometre voyage from Guwahati to Patna via Bangladesh.
The vessel, carrying around 1,500 metric tonnes of cement, is expected to reach Bhagalpur on June 13 before continuing its journey to Patna. The movement of the vessel is being closely monitored by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).
One of India’s Longest Inland Waterway Voyages
The cargo convoy began its journey from Guwahati on May 25 and is travelling through a network of national waterways and international river routes.
Starting from National Waterway-2, the vessel entered the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, designated as National Waterway-97, before linking with National Waterway-1 near Kolkata. From there, it is proceeding along the Ganga River towards Bihar.
Officials said the voyage represents one of the longest inland water transport operations undertaken on the route.
Vessel to Cross 27 Rivers
During the journey, the cargo tug is expected to cross 27 rivers before reaching Bhagalpur and subsequently Patna.
The vessel is likely to pass through the Farakka Barrage on June 10, an important milestone along the route connecting eastern and northern India through inland waterways.
Cement Cargo Highlights Growing Water Transport Network
According to IWAI officials, the vessel is transporting a substantial quantity of cement across a long distance using inland waterways.
While cargo movement through the route has taken place in the past, the scale of this operation and the volume of cargo being transported have made the voyage particularly significant for the sector.
The project also highlights the increasing use of waterways as an alternative mode of freight transportation in the country.
Route Through Bhagalpur, Sultanganj and Munger
After arriving in Bhagalpur, the vessel will continue through Sultanganj and Munger before reaching Patna.
Once the cement consignment is unloaded in Patna, the cargo tug and its barges will begin their return journey to their originating station.
IWAI officials said communication with the vessel is being maintained throughout the voyage, with daily updates being received on its location and operational status.
