Prime Minister Modi Unveils Major Infrastructure Projects in Assam

Significant Infrastructure Developments Announced

Guwahati, March 13: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated and laid the groundwork for a series of substantial infrastructure and connectivity initiatives in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) area and other regions of Assam, with a total investment exceeding Rs 4,500 crore.

Due to travel constraints, the Prime Minister participated in the event from Guwahati via video link, focusing on projects primarily centered in Kokrajhar.

Among the notable announcements was the launch of Assam Mala 3.0, a significant road infrastructure project valued at over Rs 3,200 crore, aimed at enhancing road connectivity throughout the state with plans to construct over 900 kilometers of roads.

This initiative is anticipated to bolster inter-state connectivity and improve the integration of national highways with rural road networks.

Additionally, Modi unveiled six road infrastructure projects in the BTC region, involving an investment of approximately Rs 1,100 crore.

These projects will feature the construction of four flyovers and two bridges, designed to alleviate traffic congestion in Kokrajhar district and enhance connectivity for local residents.

The flyovers will be strategically located at major traffic intersections, including B.K. Road–Gossaigaon Chariali, Balajan Tiniali, Debargaon Junction, and Titaguri, while the bridges will further improve road connectivity in the area.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a Periodic Overhauling (POH) Workshop valued at Rs 255 crore in Bashbari, Kokrajhar district.

This railway maintenance facility is expected to strengthen the region's railway infrastructure, create job opportunities, and enhance operational efficiency.

Modi also inaugurated three new train services aimed at improving connectivity between the Northeast and other parts of India.

These services include the Kamakhya–Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express, which will connect the Northeast directly with southern India; the Guwahati–New Jalpaiguri Express, enhancing rail links between Assam and West Bengal; and the Narangi–Agartala Express, which will improve connectivity between Assam and Tripura.

During his virtual address, Prime Minister Modi commended the Bodo community for their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and noted that the region is entering a new era of peace and development.

“I regret not being able to join you in person today. I take pride in the Bodo community's efforts to maintain their traditions and cultural identity. Today marks the launch of several projects aimed at the development of the Bodoland region,” he stated.

He emphasized that these infrastructure projects would be pivotal in stimulating economic activity in the area.

“These initiatives will not only enhance facilities for the populace but also foster trade, tourism, and connectivity. Kokrajhar and its surroundings have endured numerous challenges in the past, but now Bodoland is progressing towards peace and development,” Modi remarked.

Highlighting recent development efforts in the region, the Prime Minister mentioned that many commitments made in 2021 have been realized. He also pointed out that the Bodo language has been granted associate official language status and that a special development package of Rs 1,500 crore has been allocated for the area.

He further noted that Kokrajhar Medical College is operational, and another medical college is under development in Tamulpur. Additionally, around 10,000 former militants who have surrendered have been given opportunities to contribute to the region's development.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, speaking at the event, stated that the Assam Mala scheme would greatly enhance road connectivity across the state.

“Today, projects worth approximately Rs 3,258 crore are being initiated under the Assam Mala scheme, with nearly 70 roads set to be developed. Many of these roads are located within the BTC region and will improve connectivity throughout Bodoland,” Sarma explained.

He also highlighted the Rs 1,100 crore road infrastructure package, which includes the construction of four flyovers and two bridges at critical locations in Kokrajhar district to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance mobility.

The Chief Minister also mentioned ongoing efforts to bolster railway connectivity in the region. “Construction has commenced on a railway line between Gelephu and Kokrajhar, which will further improve regional connectivity,” he added.

The newly announced railway POH workshop at Bashbari is also expected to help position the region as an emerging logistics hub while creating job opportunities for local youth.