Prime Minister Modi Unveils Major Railway Developments in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a significant increase in the railway budget for Assam, highlighting a fivefold rise in funding that aims to enhance infrastructure and connectivity. During a ceremony for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor, he revealed plans for new train services, including the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train, which will improve travel between major cities. Modi emphasized that these developments will not only facilitate trade and education but also bridge emotional distances in the Northeast, marking a new era of connectivity for the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 18, 2026, 15:53 IST

Significant Railway Budget Increase for Assam

Guwahati, Jan 18: On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized a remarkable fivefold rise in the railway budget for Assam, attributing the Centre's increased financial support to substantial infrastructure enhancements and improved rail connectivity and passenger services throughout the state.

During the bhoomi pujan ceremony for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor in Kaliabor, Modi noted that Assam previously received approximately Rs 2,000 crore annually for railway projects under earlier administrations.

He stated, “Under the BJP government, this allocation has surged to nearly Rs 10,000 crore each year; a fivefold increase,” linking this boost to the development of new rail lines, track doubling, and electrification initiatives across the state.

As part of the government's renewed focus on railway development, Modi announced the introduction of three new train services from Kaliabor, marking a significant expansion of Assam's railway network.

He mentioned that the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train would facilitate travel between Guwahati and Kolkata, providing a faster and more comfortable option for long-distance journeys.

Additionally, two Amrit Bharat Express trains will connect key stations in Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, directly benefiting millions of passengers.

Modi highlighted that improved connectivity is also addressing both physical and emotional distances that have long affected the Northeast.

He remarked, “For decades, the Northeast's greatest challenge was distance; both geographical and emotional. People felt that development was occurring elsewhere, leaving them behind. This not only impacted the economy but also eroded trust,” adding that the region is now “no longer marginalized in development but is now at the forefront and close to Delhi.”

The Prime Minister asserted that enhanced rail connectivity would unlock new markets for Assam's traders, ease access to educational institutions for students, and simplify travel across the region.

He noted that the Centre, in collaboration with state governments, has simultaneously bolstered road, rail, air, and water connectivity throughout Assam and the broader Northeast.

According to Modi, the increased railway budget has facilitated extensive upgrades that have significantly enhanced capacity and passenger facilities in the state.