Waterways to connect NE with Kolkata

The North East Region Development Minister Tapan Sikdar today said the government was trying to develop waterways connecting the north eastern region with Kolkata.

The North East Region Development Minister Tapan Sikdar on Saturday said the government was trying to develop waterways connecting the north eastern region with Kolkata.

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"We are trying for developing waterways to connect NE with Kolkata. If this can be developed then transportation cost to and from Kolkata would become cheaper and easier," Sikdar said at a seminar organised by Indo-CIS Chamber of Commerce here.

The minister said the Centre's intention was to complete infrastructural development of the region. "We have already started work in this direction and very recently a number of new flights connecting the region was launched," he said.

Sikdar said the region had tremendous potential which was yet to be fully exploited.

"There is tremendous potential of hydro-projects in the region where CIS countries could be of immense help. We are interested to get cooperation in this sector," he said.

Sikdar said participation of CIS companies was also sought for developing paper industry as bamboo fibres found in the region was of world class.

Another potential was in floriculture sector, he said, adding, "If properly developed this could be an important part of business with CIS countries."