By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Meghalaya will revive the now defunct river routes for trade with Bangladesh after dredging the rivers in the border areas.
This assurance was made by Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma in his reply to a question raised by Donkupar Roy (UDP) in Assembly on Thursday.
Roy wanted to know whether the commerce and industries department was aware that Duba Channel in Nongjri elaka and Dear Valley in Umniuh elaka are recognized trade routes in the State.
The Chief Minister, who is also in charge of commerce and industries said that these trade routes were inspected by the Government and it, was found that over the years due to the dwindling water level in the river and dry season, the trade discontinued.
However, in the recent times, the Government is engaging itself with Bangladesh in a more effective manner and the neighbouring country has also shown keen interest to open up the river routes.
The Chief Minister also said that the Centre had also been appraised to take note of the routes and the State Government also sought the support of the Government for the development of the routes.
Dr Sangma also said that a token amount was earmarked for dredging the rivers at Nongjri and Umniuh and the export of horticulture products can be carried out through these routes.
