Pandu terminal handles first-ever over-dimensional cargo consignment

In a major boost to inland waterway logistics in Northeast India, Pandu Terminal in Guwahati has successfully handled its first-ever Over-Dimensional Cargo (ODC) consignment. The shipment—comprising 537 metric tonnes of Jack-up Barges belonging to Larsen & Toubro (L&T)—originated from the terminal’s Heavy Lift Jetty (HLJ) and is now in final stages of preparation for its voyage to Kolkata.

The milestone marks a significant leap in multimodal transport capabilities and regional connectivity under the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). It also underscores the strategic importance of the Brahmaputra River (National Waterway-2) as a reliable route for transporting heavy and oversized project cargo—reducing pressure on congested road and rail networks while offering a sustainable, cost-efficient logistics alternative.

“This achievement reflects the growing confidence of leading Indian industries in using inland waterways for complex, high-value shipments,” an IWAI spokesperson said. “It highlights Pandu Terminal’s operational readiness and its capability to manage specialized consignments that were once considered logistically challenging for the Northeast.”

Handling ODC like Jack-up Barges demands meticulous planning, advanced lifting infrastructure, and seamless coordination among multiple stakeholders. At Pandu, the operations team ensured safe, efficient loading that met the rigorous standards required for such high-stakes cargo.

With the Government of India prioritizing the expansion of National Waterways, this first-of-its-kind movement from Pandu is expected to encourage more industrial and infrastructure players to turn to riverine transport for project cargo. L&T’s upcoming delivery to Kolkata will further demonstrate the viability of long-distance ODC movement via inland waterways—setting the stage for stronger trade links between the Northeast and the rest of India.