Guwahati's Gateway Ghat Terminal, India's first modern riverine ferry facility, is set to inaugurate on October 30, promising enhanced transportation and economic opportunities for the region
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The Guwahati Gateway Ghat, a state-of-the-art riverine ferry terminal, is set to be inaugurated on October 30. Designed as India’s first modern riverine terminal, it features advanced infrastructures to handle both passenger and freight operations.
The Inland Water Transport department believes that the project will unlock new economic opportunities for the region. Talking to GPlus, a senior official from IWT added, "At least 970 workers are involved in this project, with an average of 130 workers on-site each day."
"The budget allocated for this project is Rs 300 crore.", he added.
He further added, “The purpose of the project is to improve the ferry terminal and establish a modern facility that meets the needs of both passengers and freight operations.” The terminal, located strategically in Guwahati, will act as a critical hub for riverine transportation, connecting various parts of Assam and potentially serving as a gateway to neighbouring countries in the future.
The Guwahati Gateway Ghat Terminal stands out not just for its scale but for its modern design, which aims to handle both passenger and freight traffic with ease. He also added, "The terminal features a unique T-shaped floating jetty, designed to accommodate year-round water level fluctuations in the Brahmaputra River, ensuring smooth operations even during the monsoon season."
The complex comprises two primary buildings, one dedicated to passengers and the other for freight operations. These structures are designed to enhance user experience, providing seamless ferry services while adhering to international standards.
The Guwahati Gateway Ghat Terminal includes several modern features aimed at improving both design and functionality. Some of the key aspects include:
Passenger and Freight Buildings:
The terminal will have two separate buildings—one dedicated to passenger services and the other to freight operations. The passenger terminal building alone features 10 toilets, ensuring adequate sanitation facilities for travellers.
Berthing Provisions:
The terminal includes two berthing dolphins, each 60 meters long, with approach trestles and steel link spans, making the total length of the berthing structures approximately 120 meters.
Floating Pontoons:
To address the challenge of fluctuating water levels in the Brahmaputra, the terminal is equipped with floating pontoons, allowing for smooth operations throughout the year.
Water Tanks:
The terminal will have two fire water tanks, additional tanks for raw and clarified water, and a sewage treatment plant with a 100 KLD (kiloliters per day) capacity.
Sewage and Waste Management:
A sewage collection pit and tank will manage waste effectively, ensuring the terminal adheres to environmental standards.
Power and Water Supply:
A pump-house will maintain consistent water pressure, while a switchgear room will support the electrical infrastructure. Additionally, EV chargers will be available for buses, and a dedicated ferry supply station will support ferry operations.
Water Pumping System:
The terminal will feature two intake bore wells and a river water pumping system, which will supply water to the fire water tank storage.
Boarding and Disembarking:
Designated areas for boarding and disembarking will streamline the process, reducing waiting times and improving safety.
Ticketing and Security:
The terminal will include a ticket counter and entry lobbies, along with baggage scanners to ensure efficient security checks.
VVIP Facilities:
A VVIP room, complete with a toilet, first aid station, and baby crèche, will cater to special guests.
Food Court and Store Room:
Travelers can enjoy dining and shopping at the food court, with additional storage space for vendors.
Toilets and Locker Rooms:
Separate toilets for men and women, along with a locker room and electrical room, will be provided for convenience.
Waiting Lounge:
The waiting lounge will have 96 seats, offering ample space for passengers to rest before their journey.
Observation Decks:
A VVIP observatory deck and a public deck will offer stunning views of the Brahmaputra River, allowing visitors to take in the scenic beauty while waiting for their ferry.
Cafeteria and Air Handling Unit (AHU): The cafeteria and AHU room will ensure passengers are comfortable during their wait.
Intermediate and Berthing Dolphins:
Four intermediate dolphins and four berthing dolphins, supported by steel piles, will facilitate the smooth docking of ferries.
Berthing Pontoons:
The terminal will also feature two berthing pontoons with canopies and four intermediate pontoons, further ensuring operational efficiency.
After years of anticipation, delays, and promises, Guwahati is finally getting its "state-of-the-art" Gateway Ghat Terminal. While locals have been navigating the Brahmaputra with whatever boats they could find, officials have now assured that a modern ferry terminal is just what the city needs to unlock its "growth potential." Of course, it is only taken until 2024 for this grand project to come to life—because why rush progress when you can take your time?
