Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has unveiled a significant financial infusion totaling ₹2185.43 Crore for crucial road infrastructure projects in Assam. The allocation includes ₹1338.61 Crore for the widening of NH-17 and ₹846.82 Crore for the upgrading of NH-137. These transformative projects aim to bolster connectivity, reduce travel times, and contribute to the overall development of the region.
Widening of NH-17: A ₹1338.61 Crore Boost
A substantial allocation of ₹1338.61 Crore has been sanctioned for the widening of NH-17, turning a 26.82-kilometer stretch into a 4-lane road with paved shoulders. This development spans from Near Mowatari before Chapar Bypass to the Tulungia section of the Bilasipara-Guwahati corridor and falls under Package 2. The widened road is poised to significantly improve connectivity between Bilasipara and Tulungia, forming an integral part of the Bilasipara-Guwahati corridor.
Strategic Significance of NH-17 Widening
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari emphasized the strategic significance of the NH-17 widening project. It not only enhances connectivity within Assam but also fosters improved access to Western Assam and Lower Assam via NH-27. The resultant connectivity to neighboring states such as Meghalaya and West Bengal is expected to catalyze regional development, providing a crucial economic and infrastructural impetus.
NH-137 Upgrade: ₹846.82 Crore for Infrastructure Advancement
Simultaneously, a noteworthy approval of ₹846.82 Crore has been granted for the widening and upgrading of the Tamenglong-Mahur section of NH-137. Covering a total distance of 19.68 kilometers, this project is designated under Package 7 and will be executed in the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode. The development aims to enhance connectivity to Imphal from the East-West corridor in Assam via NH-27.
Alternative Route and Regional Connectivity
The NH-137 upgrade serves as an alternative route to the Imphal-Kohima section of NH-02 and the Silchar-Jiribam-Imphal section of NH-37. By providing this alternative route, the project contributes significantly to regional connectivity and infrastructure advancement in the Northeast. The ₹846.82 Crore investment underscores the commitment to exploring and improving alternative routes for better connectivity and accessibility.
Nitin Gadkari’s Vision for Northeast Infrastructure
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s announcement aligns with a broader vision for developing robust infrastructure in the Northeast. The projects not only address immediate connectivity needs but also contribute to the long-term economic and social development of the region. The financial allocations reflect a commitment to creating a modern and efficient road network that will benefit the people of Assam and neighboring states.
As these transformative road projects take shape, they are poised to bolster connectivity, reduce travel times, and drive overall development in Assam. Nitin Gadkari’s strategic approach to infrastructural development aims to create a robust network that will unlock economic opportunities, enhance accessibility, and propel the Northeast into a new era of growth and prosperity.**
