Guwahati: Assam is set to receive a major infrastructure push as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform the Bhoomi Pujan for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project on Sunday, January 18, in Kaliabor, Nagaon district. Valued at ₹6,950 crore, the project marks the launch of a landmark national highway initiative aimed at transforming connectivity across the state while safeguarding one of India’s most sensitive ecological zones.
The project involves the four-laning of the Kaliabor–Numaligarh stretch of National Highway-715, passing through Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, and Golaghat districts. Once completed, it will significantly improve access to Upper Assam, particularly the key districts of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia.
Faster Travel, Major Boost to Assam’s Tea Economy
One of the most immediate benefits of the corridor will be a reduction of at least one hour in travel time between Guwahati and Jorhat, easing congestion on a critical transport route. The improved connectivity is expected to provide a substantial boost to Assam’s tea industry, enabling faster movement of goods from the major tea-producing hubs of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia.
Beyond trade and logistics, the project is projected to generate nearly 35 lakh direct and indirect employment opportunities, delivering a significant economic stimulus to the region.
35-km Elevated Road to Protect Wildlife Corridors
At the heart of the project is a 35-kilometre elevated highway designed to pass over nine identified animal corridors around Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for the Great Indian one-horned rhinoceros.
Kaziranga frequently faces severe flooding, forcing wildlife to migrate toward the Karbi Anglong hills. Currently, animals must cross a busy highway at ground level, often resulting in fatal accidents.
Between 2021 and 2025, at least 85 large mammals, including rhinos, elephants, and hog deer, were killed in vehicle collisions, with the highest toll recorded in 2022, when 22 animals died.
By elevating the highway, the corridor will allow animals to move safely beneath the road, even during peak flood seasons, significantly reducing wildlife casualties.
Completion Timeline and Centre’s Focus on Northeast
The project is expected to be completed within four years, with a targeted finishing window around 2030.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the Prime Minister’s frequent visits to the state highlight the Centre’s strong focus on the Northeast, noting that PM Modi has visited Northeastern states more than 100 times in the past deca