Assam plans Rs 17,235 crore connectivity push with highways, elevated corridor
Guwahati, July 18
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday unveiled a Rs 17,235 crore infrastructure expansion plan, describing it as one of the state's most extensive road connectivity initiatives aimed at strengthening transport networks and supporting long-term economic growth.
Announcing the proposed projects through a post on X, Sarma said the ambitious investment package would significantly improve connectivity across Assam by upgrading key road corridors and creating new transport links.
The Chief Minister said the proposed infrastructure programme includes the four-laning of the Baihata Chariali-Mission Chariali highway stretch, the construction of the Guwahati Airport-Jalukbari Elevated Corridor and a new bridge across the Brahmaputra connecting Morigaon and Darrang districts.
"With a planned investment of Rs 17,235 crore, we are driving one of the most ambitious connectivity overhauls in Assam till date," Sarma said while outlining the government's vision for expanding the state's transport infrastructure.
According to the Chief Minister, the projects are expected to ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time and improve the movement of people and goods across different regions of the state.
He said the upgraded road network would also enhance access to important commercial and urban centres.
The proposed bridge linking Morigaon and Darrang is expected to provide an additional crossing over the Brahmaputra, improving connectivity between the northern and southern parts of Assam while offering an alternative route for commuters and freight transport.
The Guwahati Airport-Jalukbari Elevated Corridor is aimed at improving access to the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport and decongesting one of the busiest traffic stretches in the state capital.
Meanwhile, the four-laning of the Baihata Chariali-Mission Chariali corridor is expected to facilitate smoother movement towards northern and upper Assam.
The announcement is part of the Assam government's broader strategy to strengthen transport infrastructure through large-scale investments to improve connectivity, attract investments, boost trade and support the state's overall economic development.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, some focus on the Brahmaputra crossing! The Morigaon-Darrang bridge will be a game-changer for people like me who travel between the north and south banks regularly. Hope they also consider environmental impact, though. 🌉
Rs 17,235 crore sounds impressive, but we need to see the execution. Roads in Assam are notorious for potholes and delays. The elevated corridor to the airport is good, but what about last-mile connectivity? Aur kya, only VIPs will benefit? 🤔
As someone from Darrang, I'm thrilled about the new bridge! It will reduce travel time to Guwahati by hours. But I hope the government also focuses on maintaining existing roads—safety is a big concern. Still, a step in the right direction! 👏
Good to see CM Himanta Biswa Sarma prioritizing infrastructure. The airport corridor is long overdue—traffic near the airport is a joke. But I wish they'd also invest in public transport like buses and metro. Not everyone drives, yaar.
This is excellent news for Assam's economy! Better roads mean better trade and tourism. But I hope the projects don't displace too many families. Development should be inclusive. Also, please plant trees along the highways! 🌿
S