The proposed Guwahati Gateway Ghat aims to harness the state’s growth potential by creating a state-of-the-art riverine ferry terminal, a first in India.
The project will also end travel disruptions caused by the suspension of ferry services due to increasing water levels in the Brahmaputra. TOI’s Tathagata Bhattacharjee presents an overview of what is on offer Key features of Guwahati gateway ghat terminal
Modern Terminal Complex
- Facilities and amenities for passengers and freight operations
- Berthing provisions with approach trestles and steel link spans supported by structures
- Floating pontoons to manage water level variations throughout the year
Terminal building infrastructure
- Two fire water tanks, raw water, and clarified water tanks for a reliable water supply
- A sewage treatment plant with a 100 KLD capacity, sewage collection pit and tank for proper waste management
- Pump-house for reliable water pressure
- Switchgear room housing the electrical infrastructur
- EV chargers for buses and a dedicated ferry supply station
- Two intake bore wells and an intake river water pumping system to fill the fire water tank storage
Passenger Facilities
- Dedicated boarding and disembarking areas
- Ticket counter and entry lobbies for smooth entry and exit
- Baggage scanner for efficient security checks
- VVIP room with toilet, first aid, and baby crèche facilities
- Food court and store room for convenient dining and shopping
- Separate toilets for men and women, locker room, and electrical room
- Waiting lounge with 96 seats
- VVIP observatory deck with a commanding river view and a public observatory deck
- Cafeteria and air handling unit (AHU) room for a comfortable environment
Riverine Infrastructure
- Intermediate dolphins four units supported by steel piles
- Berthing dolphins four units supported by steel piles.
- Pontoons two berthing pontoons with a canopy and four intermediate pontoons link span a steel bridge with a 20-kW solar panel system and a transparent roof to allow natural light
- A berthing occupancy for six catamaran vessels
Potential and economic impact
The development of Assam’s inland waterways, particularly through the Guwahati Gateway Ghat, is poised to have a transformative impact on the region. The integration of high-quality passenger and vehicle ferry services, alongside inland water freight transport, will bolster connectivity and stimulate economic activity.
