(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal celebrated a major boost for Assam’s infrastructure today as the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, greenlit the upgrade of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh stretch of NH-715. The plan widens the existing highway to four lanes over 85.675 kilometers, with a budget of Rs 6,957 crore, and builds in wildlife-friendly features to safeguard the Kaziranga National Park area.
“This marks a historic day for Assam and a huge step toward sustainable development in India,” Sonowal said. He credited Modi’s vision, noting how the project prioritizes the people of Assam and the iconic Kaziranga National Park. A standout feature is the 34.45-kilometer elevated corridor, which creates a safe path for animals to move freely between Kaziranga and the Karbi Anglong Hills without crossing traffic.
Sonowal emphasized that the highway goes beyond roads—it’s about balancing progress with nature. “We’re protecting our wildlife and heritage while paving the way for a brighter future,” he added. The design includes upgrading 30.22 kilometers of the current road and adding 21 kilometers of new greenfield bypasses around busy spots like Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat. This will cut travel times, reduce congestion, and make journeys safer for drivers.
Right now, the two-lane section of NH-715 (formerly NH-37) runs through crowded towns and hugs the southern edge of Kaziranga National Park. Narrow lanes and tricky terrain make it risky, especially during floods when animals cross the road, leading to accidents and wildlife deaths. The new elevated sections aim to fix that, ensuring smoother travel while keeping the ecosystem intact.
The project also ties into bigger networks, linking up with National Highways 127 and 129, State Highway 35, three railway stations—Nagaon, Jakhalabandha, and Bishwanath Chariali—and airports in Tezpur, Lilabari, and Jorhat. Expect better logistics, trade, and mobility across Assam, plus easier access to economic centers, religious sites, and tourist hotspots that draw crowds to Kaziranga.
Economically, it’s a game-changer. Sonowal highlighted how it will spark eco-tourism, help pilgrims and visitors, and open doors for new industries and jobs. The initiative could create 15.42 lakh person-days of direct employment and 19.19 lakh person-days of indirect work, fueling Assam’s growth without harming the environment.
“This highway connects our emotions, dreams, and prosperity,” Sonowal said. “It’s Modi’s way of letting economy and ecology thrive together—Assam’s progress will always harmonize with nature.” For generations, locals will see this as a turning point.
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