PM Modi to Launch Major Infrastructure Projects in Assam's Barak Valley
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lay the foundation stone for the monumental Rs 25,000-crore Guwahati-Barapani-Panchgram Expressway project during his upcoming visit to Barak Valley on March 14. This significant announcement was made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday, highlighting a major push for regional development ahead of the assembly elections.
Expressway to Revolutionize Northeast Connectivity
The ambitious 166.8-kilometer greenfield expressway will be a four-lane, access-controlled highway forming part of NH-06. It is being implemented by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) with all necessary clearances already secured.
Key project details include:
- Tenders have been floated and wildlife board clearance obtained
- Land acquisition is currently progressing smoothly
- The expressway will traverse through Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, and West Jaintia Hills districts of Meghalaya before entering Cachar district in Assam
- Extensive tunnelling work is planned along the route
- Target completion date is set for 2030
This transformative infrastructure project is designed to dramatically reduce travel time between Guwahati and Silchar from the current duration to approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. Chief Minister Sarma emphasized that the expressway will significantly strengthen connectivity between Assam and Meghalaya, creating substantial opportunities for trade expansion, tourism growth, and enhanced economic activity throughout Barak Valley and the broader northeastern region.
Silchar Flyover Project to Ease Urban Congestion
During the same visit, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the long-awaited Silchar flyover project, addressing critical urban transportation needs. The 2.5-kilometer elevated stretch will connect Capital Point to Rangirkhari at an estimated cost of Rs 700 crore.
The tender for this important urban infrastructure project is expected to be floated in October this year, marking another step forward in Silchar's development trajectory.
Greenfield Airport Progress Update
Chief Minister Sarma provided additional updates on the proposed Greenfield Airport at Doloo near Silchar. Environmental clearance was officially received on Thursday, and the proposal will now be forwarded to the Union cabinet for final approval.
The Chief Minister indicated that if the foundation stone cannot be laid during the March visit due to scheduling constraints, it will definitely be conducted in April following the assembly elections. This new airport, to be developed by the Airports Authority of India, will replace the defense-controlled Silchar Airport at Kumbhirgram and is scheduled for completion by September 2029.
Strategic Timing Ahead of Assembly Elections
With multiple large-scale infrastructure projects lined up for inauguration and foundation laying, Prime Minister Modi's visit is strategically positioned to give a substantial boost to connectivity and development initiatives in Barak Valley. This comes at a crucial time as Assam prepares for upcoming assembly elections, with infrastructure development serving as a central theme in the political landscape.
The comprehensive infrastructure push represents one of the most significant development initiatives for the region in recent years, promising to transform transportation networks, stimulate economic growth, and improve quality of life for residents across Assam and Meghalaya.
