Guwahati, 15 February (HS): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday unveiled a series of major infrastructure initiatives aimed at easing traffic congestion and strengthening connectivity in Guwahati and its adjoining areas, while also outlining key projects for other parts of the state.

Addressing a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan, the Chief Minister said an elevated corridor will be constructed from Guwahati Airport to Jalukbari to streamline vehicular movement. He also announced a four-lane road from Baihata Chariali to Dispur. In addition, the Guwahati Ring Road and the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor have received approval, with foundation-laying ceremonies expected in the coming days.

Dr Sarma further informed that a four-lane road connecting Baihata to Tezpur will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 14,000 crore. A new national highway linking Jagiroad and Udalguri will also be built, along with integrated connectivity between rail and road networks within a 500-metre stretch to enhance transport efficiency.

Expanding aviation infrastructure, the state government plans to establish four new airports at Diphu, Majuli, Umrangso and Manah. Surveys for these proposed airports will commence shortly. Additionally, a new railway line connecting Fakirating and Gohpur will be taken up, with work set to begin within the next two days.

Criticising the previous Congress government, the Chief Minister remarked that while Assam earlier had significant representation in the Indian Air Force, the numbers have declined in recent years. He said that air shows organised in the state are not merely aircraft displays but are intended to inspire and attract the youth of Assam to join the Indian Air Force. He also touched upon several other developmental priorities during the briefing.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash