Assam's First Underwater Tunnel: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Reports DPR Nearing Completion

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Gohpur-Numaligarh underwater tunnel project is nearing completion. This project, which is set to be Assam's first underwater tunnel, will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹6,000 crore.

The announcement came during a meeting with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday, where Sarma provided updates on various road infrastructure initiatives in the state. He shared that Gadkari has assured that once the DPR is finalized, the project will move to the next phase.

Sarma explained his vision for the tunnel, inspired by existing infrastructure like the Atal Tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed the desire to connect both banks of the Brahmaputra River via an underwater route for both rail and vehicular traffic. "We decided it will come between Numaligarh and Gohpur," Sarma stated, emphasizing the project’s potential to enhance connectivity.

During the meeting, Gadkari reviewed the status of ongoing national highway projects in Assam, urging the completion of 28 projects on schedule and accelerating 11 delayed ones under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). He also directed officials to ensure safety measures, such as proper road signage, to prevent accidents on critical stretches of NH 37.

Sarma requested expedited processes for several projects, including the awarding of a contract for the 121-km Guwahati Ring Road and the elevated corridor over Kaziranga National Park, as well as the completion of the Majuli bridge over the Brahmaputra.

The Chief Minister highlighted the need for a specialized work schedule for civil projects in Assam, considering the region's monsoon season from April to October. Gadkari instructed senior officials to work on this suggestion.

In a social media post, Sarma noted, "Today in New Delhi, I had the privilege of attending a review meeting led by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri @nitin_gadkari ji, focused on the development of 1,001 km of highway projects in Assam. Our collective priority remains the timely completion of 57 critical National Highway projects across various implementing agencies."

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is hosting a two-day review meeting for national highway projects involving all states in the Northeastern region.

ET