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Assam's Kaziranga Gets 34.5 km Elevated Highway for Wildlife Safety

The National Highways Authority of India has received an overwhelming 18 bids for the construction of the 85.6 km Kaliabor to Numaligarh section of NH-715 in Assam. The Rs 6,956 crore project, approved by the CCEA, includes a landmark 34.5 km elevated corridor to ensure the free and safe passage of wildlife from Kaziranga National Park. Extensive consultations with wildlife authorities like WII and NTCA were conducted to align the project with ecological requirements. Upon completion, this upgraded 4-lane highway is expected to boost regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development in Assam.

Key Points: 85 km NH-715 Section with Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Approved

  • 18 bids received for project
  • Includes 34.5 km Kaziranga Elevated Corridor
  • Project cost is Rs 6,956 Crores
  • Designed for wildlife movement to Karbi Anglong
2 min read

NHAI receives response from bidders for construction of Kaliabor to Numaligarh section of NH-715 in Assam

NHAI receives 18 bids for Rs 6,956 Cr Kaliabor-Numaligarh NH project in Assam, featuring a 34.5 km elevated corridor for wildlife protection.

"strengthening connectivity while preserving the unique ecological heritage of the region - Ministry Release"

New Delhi, March 13

National Highways Authority of India received an overwhelming response from the bidders for the construction of over 85 km long Kaliabor to Numaligarh section of NH-715 passing through Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve on Engineering Procurement and Construction Mode, the release said.

In response to the bids called by NHAI from the highway developers, the project has received 18 bids and is scheduled to be awarded in the current Financial Year at a total capital cost of Rs. 6,956 Crores. To strengthen connectivity while preserving the unique ecological heritage of the region, the project was approved by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs (CCEA) and'Bhumi Pujan' of the project was performed by the Hon'ble Prime Minister in January 2026.

According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, the project also includes the construction of a 34.5 km long Kaziranga Elevated Corridor for free and uninterrupted passage of wildlife. The elevated corridor will be implemented in three sections of length 18.3 km, 11.2 km and 5 km, respectively.

The alignment of the corridor is designed to cover the movement of the wildlife from Kaziranga National Park to Karbi Anglong hills and will be constructed as part of the upgradation of NH-715 from a 2-lane to a 4-lane configuration.

The 85.6 km long project includes development of two Greenfield bypasses with a combined length of 21 km at Jakhlabandha (Nagaon) and Bokakhat (Golaghat) town area, one major bridge, 20 minor bridges, seven flyovers, 84 culverts, one Railway over Bridge, five Vehicular Underpass (VUP), 12 LVUP and 16 km long service roads.

In order to align the project as per wildlife requirements, NHAI has consulted the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Forest Department - Govt of Assam and has received approvals from the National Board of Wildlife (NBWL). The elevated design has been planned to minimise disturbance to natural habitats while ensuring smoother and safer vehicular movement along this critical route.

Upon completion, the Kalibor- Numaligarh section of NH-715 will play a pivotal role in regional economic growth, strengthening connectivity between major tourism, industrial and economic centres, boosting tourism to Kaziranga National Park, and opening new avenues for trade and industrial development in Assam.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
~7000 crores is a huge investment. While better roads are needed, I really hope the environmental safeguards are strictly followed. Kaziranga is a global treasure. The authorities must ensure no compromise on the wildlife corridor design.
R
Rohit P
Finally! The connectivity in upper Assam needs this boost. The bypasses at Jakhlabandha and Bokakhat will decongest town traffic significantly. This will help local businesses and tourism big time. Great step for the region's economy.
M
Michael C
As someone who has visited Kaziranga, I'm impressed by the thoughtful planning. Consulting WII and NTCA is crucial. The elevated corridor is an innovative solution seen in other countries too. Hope it sets a benchmark for future projects near protected areas.
S
Shreya B
‍♀️ My only concern is the timeline and quality. We've seen projects get delayed and costs escalate. With 18 bidders, I hope the most competent one is chosen, not just the lowest bidder. Proper oversight during construction is non-negotiable.
K
Karthik V
This will be a game-changer for connectivity to Numaligarh refinery and other industrial units. Safer roads, less travel time. Hope the service roads also benefit the local villages along the route. Development with environmental consciousness is the way forward!

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