Bihar to Transport Sand and Cement via Rivers: Cheaper and Eco-Friendly Alternative to Road and Rail

Patna, Bihar: Bihar is set to witness a major transformation in goods transportation as rivers will now be used to move sand, cement, and other heavy materials. The state’s Transport Minister, Shravan Kumar, announced the development of seven national waterways, including the Ganga and Kosi, aimed at reducing transport costs, easing road congestion, and creating new employment opportunities.

Rivers as Commercial Routes
The initiative will significantly reduce the pressure of heavy trucks on Bihar’s roads. During the “Inland Waterways Development Council” meeting held in Kochi, Minister Kumar unveiled a roadmap for developing seven national waterways in the state. He emphasized that waterway transport is not only cost-effective but also environmentally sustainable. The plan includes the establishment of industries and modern terminals along riverbanks, directly connecting Bihar to global trade networks and neighboring Nepal.

Cost Advantage Over Road and Rail
According to the Transport Minister, the cost of transporting goods via waterways is just ₹1.3 per ton per kilometer, far lower than road transport (₹3.62) and rail (₹2.41). Using ships to transport heavy materials like sand, cement, and stone chips is expected to reduce road traffic by 30–40%, preventing wear and tear on roads and bridges.

Kalughat Multimodal Terminal: A New Trade Hub
The multimodal terminal at Kalughat in Sonpur is poised to reshape Bihar’s trade landscape. With an annual capacity to load and unload 77,000 containers, the terminal can dock two large cargo vessels simultaneously. A logistics park is under construction here, offering modern facilities including secure storage with water-rail-road connectivity.

Boosting Trade with Nepal
Under this plan, industrial zones and IWT (Inland Water Transport) terminals will be developed along identified riverbanks. These terminals will support local industries and strengthen regional trade with Nepal, enabling direct imports and exports from Bihar. The initiative is expected to generate thousands of new jobs for the state’s youth while enhancing economic growth and sustainability.