Guwahati, 03 October (HS): Even as Assam reels under the grief of losing the people’s artist Zubeen Garg, the State has received a historic boost from the Central Government. The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a mega project worth ₹6,957 Crore that promises to transform Assam’s infrastructure and accelerate development across the North-East.

According to a statement issued by the Assam Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party, this ambitious project has been sanctioned owing to the sustained efforts of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and the commitment of the Modi Government to the region. Party Spokesperson Kamal Kumar Medhi said that in the past 11 years, the NDA regime has propelled Assam—considered the heart of Ashtalakshmi—towards the zenith of progress.

The approved plan focuses on the 85.7 km stretch of National Highway 715, which includes the construction of a 34.5 km elevated corridor across Kaziranga National Park. This flyover, designed with provisions for wildlife crossings, will ensure smooth traffic while safeguarding animal movement between the sanctuary and the Karbi Anglong hills.

The project also includes upgrading 30.22 km of the existing highway and developing two Greenfield bypasses. An 11.5 km bypass at Jakhalabandha and a 9.5 km bypass at Bokakhat are expected to significantly reduce congestion along the Guwahati–Kaziranga–Numaligarh route.

The total outlay of ₹6,957 Crore will cover ₹4,829 Crore for construction and ₹622 Crore for land acquisition. Executed under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model, the project is projected to generate 15.42 lakh man-days of direct employment and 19.19 lakh man-days of indirect employment.

Currently, the NH-715 stretch records an average daily traffic flow of 13,800 small vehicles. Once upgraded, the highway will also seamlessly connect with NH-127, NH-129, and State Highway 35, boosting trade and connectivity across Upper and Central Assam.

The Assam BJP has expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NDA Government and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for securing approval for this long-cherished project, which it says will mark a turning point in Assam’s journey of growth.--------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash