Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Assam on Sunday, marking a significant day for the state's infrastructure and connectivity. During his two-day trip, Modi laid the foundation stone for an elevated corridor over Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve. He also flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains from the state.
Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project
Modi performed the Bhoomi Pujan for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project at Kaliabor in central Assam. This project involves four-laning the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 6,950 crore.
The corridor aims to provide safe passage for wild animals at Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It will improve regional connectivity while protecting the park's rich biodiversity, known for its one-horned rhinos.
Addressing Flood Challenges
Modi highlighted the annual challenges faced during floods when the Brahmaputra's water level rises. Animals venture out and cross the national highway in search of higher ground, often getting stuck on the roadside.
"Our effort is that roads keep functioning and forests also remain safe," Modi said. The approximately 90-kilometer-long corridor from Kaliabor to Numaligarh will include a 35-kilometer elevated wildlife corridor. Vehicles will pass from above, allowing wildlife movement to continue below.
The design considers the animals' traditional movement routes. This corridor will also enhance connectivity between Upper Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
New Train Services
During the event, Modi virtually flagged off two New Amrit Bharat Express trains. One connects Guwahati with Rohtak, while the other links Dibrugarh with Lucknow.
Modi emphasized the increased railway budget for Assam under the BJP government. "During Congress time, the rail budget for Assam was around Rs 2,000 crore. Now the BJP government increased it five times, and it stands at Rs 10,000 crore annually," he stated.
The new trains will cover important stations across Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. They are expected to benefit lakhs of passengers directly, connect Assam's traders to new markets, and simplify travel across different parts of the country.
Political Remarks and Historical Context
Modi did not miss the opportunity to criticize the Congress party. He asserted that Congress has no development agenda and such a Congress-led government could never do good for Kaziranga.
"Kaziranga is not just a national park. Kaziranga is the soul of Assam. This soul is also a precious gem of India's biodiversity," Modi said. He added that saving Kaziranga and its wildlife is not just environmental protection but also a responsibility towards Assam's future and coming generations.
Modi also recalled the historical significance of Kaliabor, where the great Ahom general Lachit Borphukan formulated strategies to drive out Mughal invaders. He expressed satisfaction that, under the BJP government, this area is becoming an important center of connectivity.
Regional Development Focus
The Prime Minister addressed the long-standing issue of distance in the northeast. "The greatest pain of the northeast has always been distance—distance of hearts and distance of places," he said.
Modi noted that for decades, people in the region felt development was happening elsewhere, leaving them behind. This perception affected not only the economy but also trust. The new infrastructure projects aim to bridge this gap and foster inclusive growth.
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor and new train services represent significant steps toward enhancing Assam's infrastructure. They combine wildlife conservation with improved transportation, addressing both ecological and economic needs.
