Ranjit Barthakur, Chairman, North-East Regional Advisory Council, FICCI, emphasises the need to prioritise smooth and green connectivity that utilises riverine systems to maintain the natural beauty of the region. How do you view infrastructure connectivity currently strengthening in the Northeast? I believe that infrastructure connectivity in the Northeast is currently strengthening due to a growing population of roughly 55 to 60 million consumers who require goods and services from the mainland of India or Bangladesh. A strong system of road and railway networks is important for this region, and I am impressed with the progress that has been made in connecting all the state capitals. However, we must also consider the impact of our actions on the ecology and the beauty of the Northeast. Instead of focusing solely on industrialisation and construction, we should prioritize smooth and green connectivity that utilizes riverine systems.The riverine systems can be a valuable asset for defense purposes. It is crucial to link the defense strategy with the river systems in the region. By doing so, we can maintain the natural beauty of the region while still promoting its economic growth. Tell us about the Inland Water Transport (IWT) system in the north-east. On 15th March 2016, the National Waterways Bill 2015 was passed by the Parliament, declaring a total of 111 waterways as National Waterways, including five existing ones. Development of these waterways is estimated to require an investment of Rs 70,000 crore. Tender documents for the development of eight waterways, including the Barak River, are almost ready. Feasibility studies for the remaining waterways are being undertaken.Nineteen waterways in the Northeast have been declared as National Waterways, with 12 passing through Assam, five in Meghalaya, one each in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. What are the key benefits of using IWT? Inland waterways transport, one of the oldest modes of transport, has lost its popularity to other modes like roadways and railways, but it still holds significant advantages in some critical areas when compared to other modes of transport. In India, inland water transport only carries 1 per cent of total inland cargo, while in Germany and Bangladesh, it carries 20 per cent and 32 per cent, respectively, indicating great potential for this mode of transport. The major advantages of inland water transport are low operating cost, lower capital investment, and environmental friendliness. It is the most fuel-efficient and cost-effective mode of transport, requiring lesser maintenance cost when compared to a four-lane highway of similar length. Moreover, it is an attractive prospect for further development to exploit its full potential. Why should the construction industry look at the northeast region as a big opportunity? Firstly, they can create a differentiated module to the world and develop green infrastructure. Secondly, most of the cement industry is based here in eastern India, making it an essential part of the region's development. Thirdly, there's enough steel that comes in from Jamshedpur and nearby Calcutta, which makes it cost-effective to use these imported materials. Lastly, there's enough labour available, but the challenge is that there is a lack of trained and skilled labor. However, many companieshave plans to create skill development units for this purpose. There’s a lot of scope for expansion and new territories here, and this is where the construction industry should focus its efforts.