Water Communication in Colonial Assam

Abstract

Assam was annexed to the British dominion as it possessed large economic resources. Annexation of Assam was a part of colonial policy of the British as a whole. Hence, tapping economic resources of the region became one of the most important policies of the British. In pursuing its economic policy, communication played a major role in colonial Assam. Prior to the construction of roadways and railways, water communication played a vital role. The role played by water communication continued to be seen till independence in 1947 with varied degrees and intensity. Moreover, improved technology precipitated the expansion of water communication in Assam.