The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) enabled the movement of a 189.260 metric tonne (t) over dimensional cargo consignment destined for Assam's emerging semiconductor sector. The heavy equipment was bound for the Tata Semiconductor Assembly facility in Morigaon and reached Pandu in Guwahati via the Brahmaputra on National Waterway two. The shipment formed part of a planned logistics operation to support the plant. The movement underscores a growing focus on local semiconductor manufacturing capacity.

The consignment commenced its voyage from Diamond Harbour aboard MV Chitrangada and traversed the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route before entering Assam via Dhubri. The vessel proceeded upstream and delivered the load to Pandu, where port handling arrangements were completed. Unloading is scheduled at Silghat, after which the cargo will be transferred overland to its final destination.

Officials indicated that the movement showcased inland waterways as a viable option for transporting heavy and over dimensional equipment to support industrial projects in the region. The mode of transport reduced reliance on longer road journeys and offered a route capable of handling large loads that would be challenging to move by road. The operation demonstrated coordination between maritime authorities and private sector stakeholders to ensure timely delivery. Specialised port handling arrangements were implemented to manage the dimensions and weight of the cargo and to coordinate inland and overland linkages.

The delivery is expected to expedite outfitting activities at the Tata Semiconductor Assembly facility, contributing to the establishment of local manufacturing capacity. Further movements of equipment are likely to follow as the facility progresses towards operational readiness, relying on multimodal logistics solutions. The IWAI stated that successful handling of this consignment reinforces plans to expand inland waterway usage for industrial supply chains.