Assam Chief Minister Inaugurates Major Bridge and Unveils Rs 2,218 Crore Projects in Majuli
In a significant development for Assam's infrastructure, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday inaugurated a 702-metre-long bridge over the Lohit river at Selek Ghat in Majuli. This pivotal structure connects the riverine island district of Majuli with Lakhimpur district, marking a milestone in regional connectivity. Simultaneously, the CM launched multiple infrastructure and socio-economic projects with a total investment exceeding Rs 2,218 crore, aimed at transforming the area's development landscape.
Bridge Construction and Asom Mala Programme
The newly inaugurated bridge is a crucial component of the Rs 694.77 crore Balichapori-Bongalmora road development project, which falls under the ambitious Asom Mala 1.0 programme. This state-wide initiative is designed to upgrade and modernize road networks across Assam, ensuring better transportation facilities for residents and businesses alike.
Enhanced Connectivity and Economic Benefits
Addressing a gathering at the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the transformative impact of the bridge. He highlighted that it will significantly reduce travel time, improve transportation efficiency, and facilitate smoother movement of goods and essential services. "The enhanced connectivity will boost trade, healthcare access, and educational mobility across the region," Sarma stated, underscoring the project's role in fostering socio-economic growth.
The broader 19.457-kilometre corridor will link Balichapori in Majuli with Bongalmora in Lakhimpur district through two major bridges—one over the Lohit river and another over the Subansiri river. While the Lohit bridge was inaugurated on Thursday, the 2,830-metre-long Subansiri bridge is currently under construction and is expected to be completed within the next year, further strengthening regional links.
Key Infrastructure Projects Unveiled
During the event, several key projects were unveiled to bolster Majuli's infrastructure. These include:
- Construction works related to the Majuli-Nimati connecting bridge approach road.
- Development of the 7.15-kilometre Majuli–Nimati road project.
- Construction of the Balichapori–Baghbar connecting road.
- Development of administrative buildings and district-level government offices.
- Expansion of cultural and institutional infrastructure.
These initiatives are strategically aimed at strengthening connectivity between Majuli and the mainland, improving governance infrastructure, and accelerating socio-economic development in the riverine district.
Women's Economic Empowerment Initiative
In a parallel effort to promote women's economic empowerment, Chief Minister Sarma distributed entrepreneurship grants of Rs 10,000 each to 31,952 women from Majuli. This initiative is part of the state's flagship Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan, which seeks to support female entrepreneurs and enhance their participation in the local economy.
The comprehensive rollout of these projects underscores the Assam government's commitment to fostering inclusive growth and infrastructure development in Majuli, setting a precedent for future advancements in the region.
