Navigating Infrastructure Transformation: The Impact of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge

Abstract:

Dhubri is a hub for trade in the Assam region of India. Small, mechanised boats transport goods from South Garo Hills and Phulbari in Meghalaya to the Dhubri market. These boats are vital for trade between Assam and Meghalaya and for sustaining the livelihoods of local boat traders. Currently, a bridge is constructed between the two states. While many optimistic hopes are attached to this bridge, its impact will extend beyond its positive effects.

It was a chilly December morning, and Dhubri port was bustling with activity. The air was cold and mixed with the scent of spices, onions and other goods. The port was a hive of activity; some boats loaded groceries, while others had already set off for neighbouring states. Passenger boats came and went, adding to the busy scene. Amidst the crowd, a middle-aged man stood out, instructing labourers to place items at specific locations on the boat. Despite his busy demeanour, the stress on his face was evident. Curious about his perspective on inland water transport and trade, our research team from the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati approached him for a conversation. As we talked, an exciting aspect of bridge development came up. It left us wondering whether constructing a bridge in the name of development would bring transformative change towards sustainable development.

Dhubri, situated in the southwest of Assam, India, is a crucial administrative district with extensive connectivity to inter-state and intra-state borders. It links to West Bengal in the west, Meghalaya in the south, Goalpara and Bongaigaon districts of Assam in the west, Kokrajhar districts in the north, and South Salmara-Mankachar sub-districts in the south (Government of Assam, 2020). Additionally, it shares a border with Bangladesh to the west as well. Dhubri is positioned within National Waterway-2 along with the Brahmaputra River and intersects with India-Bangladesh protocol routes 1&2, connecting it with the Chilamri riverport in Bangladesh (Chhatterjee & Singh, 2022). The district is a significant trade hub, boasting an international port managed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and several domestic ports. The IWAI port primarily facilitates the trade of coal and stones, facilitating the movement of goods from Bhutan to Bangladesh via India. In contrast, domestic ports handle mainly domestic trade, transporting various commodities to destinations such as Meghalaya and other parts of Assam. While the IWAI port is accessible to Indian and international traders (Bangladeshi traders) holding appropriate licenses, local traders face restrictions. They cannot access the IWAI port for trading due to licensing requirements, necessitating boat survey, registration, and certifications in compliance with the Indian Vessel Act of 2021.

Small mechanised boats are crucial in transporting goods from South Garo Hills and Phulbari in Meghalaya to the Dhubri market. Likewise, these boats carry produce to and from the char (The riverine areas (island) of the river Brahmaputra are locally known as Char) areas along the Brahmaputra River (CUTS International, 2018). Commodities such as fertilisers, pulses, medicines, groceries and finished goods are regularly traded via these boats. However, the journey between Dhubri and Phulbari can vary in duration, typically taking up to two and a half hours, though occasionally extending to three or four hours, especially during the monsoon season. A 4-lane bridge between Dhubri and Phulbari is being constructed to reduce travel time. The bridge is the longest over a river in India, spanning more than 19 kilometres. The bridge is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and executed by the National Highway and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) (Javaid, 2021). This bridge has sparked hopes and expectations for the transformation of connectivity in the Northeastern states of India. This bridge promises to reduce travelling distance, facilitate trade, and foster economic development.

In a recent interview, S.V Desai, the Whole Time Director and Senior Executive Vice President (Civil Infrastructure) at L&T, emphasised the monumental impacts of the bridge. "Not only will it be an important passage for offering easier access to our North Eastern international borders, but it will give a huge fillip to trade and commerce in the region for the accelerated development of all North Eastern States, especially Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and the Barak valley". The question that arises is whether this bridge will solely bring about positive transformation or if it will have negative repercussions. The impact of the bridge extends beyond its positive aspects. Vulnerable communities like small boat traders are likely to be affected and will face challenges due to the shift in transportation dynamics. The construction of the bridge is a significant concern for local boat traders. There is uncertainty about their business, as the bridge's construction might lead to the complete cessation of their business through the river. However, local boat trade in the char areas might remain unaffected because the primary mode of transportation between this area and the mainland is by boat. Nevertheless, there are concerns about the overall demand for boat-based trade. In a recent interview, a boat association member at Dhubri Domestic Port shares his concern over bridge construction. "Due to the bridge's construction, the boat business will be affected; it will stop completely. We do not have any plan if we lose our business after bridge construction". The forthcoming completion of the bridge has left local boat traders needing more certainty regarding their future business prospects. Although they have the opportunity to utilise the IWAI port, using it for international trade requires obtaining licenses, which poses a barrier for local boat traders. Despite their eagerness to broaden their trade horizons, they need help with the provisions of the Inland Vessel Act 2021. This legislation imposes restrictions on the types of boats permitted for international navigation, thereby presenting a significant challenge for local boat operators who may need to meet the criteria outlined in the regulations. Consequently, their ability to actively participate in international trade remains constrained.

Infrastructure is a cornerstone of development, providing a transformative platform for economic expansion, poverty eradication, and societal advancement (Grant, 2017). The interconnection between access to essential infrastructure services and poverty reduction is undeniable (Winters, 2014). A robust infrastructure empowers individuals to pursue economic opportunities, fostering improved quality of life and enhanced economic mobility (Otsuki, 2016). Fair access to well-designed infrastructure helps level the playing field, enabling marginalised populations to engage in economic activity and boost productivity (Zhang, Zhang, Xu, Wang, & Shi, 2021). Inclusive infrastructure development is imperative as it reduces inequalities and promotes social equity, fostering long-term economic growth. Considering the requirements of underrepresented groups in infrastructure initiatives is vital for promoting social integration and upward mobility (Hudson, Hunter, & Peckham, 2019). Ensuring accessibility for everyone and aligning to leave no one behind is crucial, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the United Nations (United Nations, 2015). Assessing the inclusivity of infrastructure projects, such as the under-construction bridge in Dhubri, requires careful consideration of their impacts on local boat traders. While such projects may enhance connectivity and accessibility, potential adverse effects on local boat-based businesses raise concerns about inclusivity. Mitigating negative repercussions and ensuring equitable access to opportunities is essential for projects to align with the principle of inclusive infrastructure development.

Dhubri is a crucial district in Assam due to its unique position of sharing national and international borders, facilitating the movement of goods between Bhutan and Bangladesh within Assam and neighbouring states. At the same time, the IWAI port offers opportunities for trade in international waters. However, local boat traders are excluded due to licensing requirements and regulations under the Inland Vessel Act 2021. Despite their interest in expanding into international waters, local boat traders need help accessing the IWAI port. The upcoming bridge between Dhubri and Phulbari promises to reduce travel time and boost economic activity. However, it also challenges local boat traders, casting uncertainty over their business future. Although small traders are keen to broaden their trade horizons, regulatory barriers must still be overcome. However, these challenges can be addressed through advocacy for regulatory reforms and alternative solutions, unlocking the full potential of international trade for all stakeholders involved. However, it is crucial to ponder whether this bridge will only bring positive transformation or if it might have some negative repercussions as well.

References

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