Assam's Judicial Infrastructure Set for Major Overhaul with New City
Transforming Assam's Judicial Landscape
Guwahati, Jan 10: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a significant upgrade to Assam's judicial infrastructure with the upcoming establishment of a modern judicial city in Rangmahal, located in North Guwahati.
During a press briefing prior to the bhumi pujan ceremony scheduled for Sunday, Sarma revealed that the Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, will officiate the foundation stone laying.
“This initiative transcends mere construction; it aims to build a robust judicial framework for future generations in Assam,” he emphasized.
The project will unfold in phases, starting with an investment of ₹500 crore for the first phase, followed by an additional ₹1,200 crore for subsequent phases.
According to Sarma, the new judicial city will include the new Gauhati High Court complex, district courts, an auditorium, and a cutting-edge judicial library, all designed to form a cohesive legal hub.
Addressing concerns from lawyers and residents regarding the relocation of court facilities, Sarma assured that connectivity issues are being resolved in tandem with the development.
“Traveling from Bharalumukh to Rangmahal will not incur costs of ₹400–500; it will be comparable to current expenses for reaching the High Court. One only needs to cross the Brahmaputra,” he stated.
He also mentioned alternative transport solutions, such as the ropeway, which have already improved cross-river travel efficiency.
“Many critics have yet to visit the site and are struggling to grasp the magnitude of this development, especially with the North Guwahati bridge nearing completion,” the Chief Minister remarked.
Sarma noted that a dedicated access road has been constructed from the new Brahmaputra bridge to the judicial city, and several upcoming connectivity initiatives will significantly enhance travel in the area.
“In the next decade, Guwahati will undergo substantial changes. Projects like the Narengi–Kuruwa bridge, North Guwahati bridge, and Palasbari–Sualkuchi bridge will drive rapid development in the region,” he added.
Highlighting North Guwahati's growing institutional significance, Sarma pointed out the presence of IIT Guwahati and the forthcoming law university, which have been positively received due to improved mobility and reduced congestion compared to the city center.
“I am confident that once the North Guwahati bridge is fully operational, travel time from the city will be shorter than commuting within Guwahati itself,” he asserted.
Sarma confirmed that discussions were held with representatives from the Bar Association and High Court officials prior to finalizing the project.
“They approached me about three years ago, and I made it clear that we would not move forward until the North Guwahati bridge was ready. Now, with the bridge set to open before February 20, we can commence work,” he stated.
Looking to the future, Sarma shared a vision for urban mobility, stating, “If I remain Chief Minister for another decade, we will see a metro line along these routes and a comprehensive ring road system,” reiterating that Rangmahal is intended to become a central administrative and judicial hub for Assam.