Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi to discuss accelerating railway infrastructure development across the state. The discussions focused on improving connectivity and enhancing passenger amenities, with both leaders reviewing the ongoing transformation of Assam's railway network.
Key Railway Projects Underway
The meeting highlighted the expansion of more than 1,300 kilometers of railway tracks and the redevelopment of over 50 stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. CM Sarma stated on social media, "We exchanged notes on expanding the overall railway network and rail infrastructure in Assam, which includes work on ongoing 1,300+ km of track expansion and 50+ Amrit Bharat stations." These projects are part of broader efforts by the central and state governments to strengthen rail connectivity, improve transport infrastructure, and support economic growth in Assam and other northeastern states. The initiatives are expected to enhance passenger convenience, improve freight movement, and integrate Assam more closely with the national railway network.
Cross-Border Connectivity with Bhutan
A significant project discussed is the new railway line from Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan, announced last year to improve cross-border connectivity and strengthen bilateral ties. The proposed 69.04-kilometer railway line, estimated to cost Rs 3,500 crores, will connect Kokrajhar station in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan. The project includes the development of six new stations: Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu. Additionally, the infrastructure plan features two important bridges, 29 major bridges, 65 minor bridges, one road-over-bridge, and 39 road under bridges.
Meeting with External Affairs Minister
CM Sarma also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss how Assam can play a role in strengthening trade and tourism ties with neighboring countries. In a social media post, Sarma said, "His perspective on global affairs and how India is navigating current geopolitical headwinds is always enlightening. I thanked him for sharing his insights on further strengthening Bharat's Act East Policy. We look forward to his guidance on how Assam can play a role in strengthening trade and tourism ties with neighbouring countries."
Other Ministerial Meetings
The Chief Minister also called on Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday, thanking them for their "impactful campaign" during the state assembly elections. These meetings underscore the state government's proactive approach to leveraging central support for infrastructure and diplomatic initiatives.
The ongoing railway projects are expected to provide a significant boost to regional development, further integrating Assam with the national railway network and enhancing its role as a gateway to Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.
