Assam, Mar 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated a slew of infrastructure projects in Assam worth over ₹47,600 crores, marking a major boost to the region’s development and connectivity. A centerpiece of this initiative is the Guwahati-Silchar Expressway, a ₹22,864 crore, 166.8-kilometer, four-lane greenfield highway linking the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys. The project is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities from 8–12 hours to just 4.5–5 hours, bypassing landslide-prone stretches and providing an all-weather route.
Assam Mala 3.0: Expanding Road Networks
In addition to the expressway, Modi unveiled the ‘Assam Mala 3.0’ initiative, a ₹3,200 crore road infrastructure program aimed at constructing over 900 kilometers of roads across the state. The scheme is designed to improve rural and inter-state connectivity, linking national highways with remote areas to strengthen economic integration.
Investments in Bodoland Territorial Council
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation for six road projects in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) area, including four flyovers and two bridges, with an investment of around ₹1,100 crores.
Economic Impact of the Expressway
The Guwahati-Silchar Expressway will create a direct freight corridor, lowering logistics costs, fuel consumption, and vehicle wear and tear. The project is projected to generate 8.9 million person-days of employment, offering a significant boost to Assam’s local economy and enhancing trade and travel efficiency in the northeastern region.