Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on November 27 that the tender for the much-anticipated 38-km elevated corridor in Kaziranga National Park is expected to be issued within the next 4-5 months.

Speaking at the 12th International Tourism Mart alongside Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Sarma revealed that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has nearly completed preliminary work. The project, approved in November 2022 by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, has an estimated cost of ?60 billion.

“This project is crucial for wildlife conservation. During monsoon floods, animals, particularly the endangered one-horned rhinos, migrate across the highway, often resulting in fatal accidents. The elevated corridor will ensure safer crossings,” Sarma explained.

The corridor, spanning National Highway 715, will include tunnels in select sections to allow seamless wildlife movement between Kaziranga National Park and Karbi Anglong district. It aims to reduce animal deaths caused by vehicles and create a safer habitat for wildlife during floods.

Since taking office, Sarma has prioritized the project, advocating its importance to the central government. The tender issuance is contingent on final Union Cabinet approval, expected soon.

The elevated corridor is poised to protect Kaziranga’s biodiversity while improving connectivity and boosting tourism in the region.