The Indian government is set to embark on an ambitious project aimed at transforming Nagaland into a pivotal trade and tourism hub by leveraging the Tizu Zunki river, designated as National Waterways-101. In a joint announcement, the Nagaland government and the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways revealed plans to study the navigation feasibility of the Tizu Zunki river. This initiative seeks to establish a waterway connection from Nagaland to Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries, potentially revolutionising trade and tourism in the region.
The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways stated that the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Nagaland Transport Department would collaborate to conduct feasibility studies on using the Tizu Zunki river for cargo and passenger transportation. The river, which flows into Myanmar’s Chindwin river (a major tributary of the Irrawaddy), offers a strategic link to the Irrawaddy river, which ultimately drains into the Andaman Sea. This connection could open up significant international trade routes for Northeast India.
The Tizu river’s strategic flow into Myanmar, reaching the Irrawaddy via the Chindwin river, presents a unique opportunity for Nagaland. The Irrawaddy river, known for its vital role in Myanmar’s economy, runs through major river ports such as Mandalay, Chauk, Prome, and Hinthada before reaching the Andaman Sea. Utilising this waterway could enhance cargo movement and establish robust trade links with Southeast Asia. In alignment with the Centre’s Act East Policy, the Nagaland government has submitted proposals for developing the Longmatra to Avakhung stretch of the Tizu Zunki river and inland waterways projects on the Dhansiri river and Doyang lake. These developments aim to bolster regional connectivity and economic growth.
Addressing a stakeholder conference in Kohima, Nagaland’s capital, the Union Minister highlighted the economic and sustainable benefits of waterway transportation. He emphasised the potential of Northeast India’s complex waterway network to drive national development. The IWAI is currently working on multiple projects, including the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project, which aims to connect Northeast India with Myanmar and other Southeast Asian nations. This project also seeks to integrate national waterways like NW-2 (the Brahmaputra) and NW-16 (the Barak river) with the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route.
Nagaland’s Chief Minister expressed full support for the Centre’s initiative, assuring cooperation to explore the state’s waterways to stimulate trade and attract investment. The collaborative efforts between the state and central governments underscore a shared commitment to harnessing Nagaland’s waterways for economic and developmental gains. As India continues to push its Act East Policy, the exploration and development of the Tizu Zunki river and other waterways in Nagaland represent a significant step towards enhancing regional trade, tourism, and overall economic integration with Southeast Asia.
