The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of an underwater road and rail tunnel under the Brahmaputra in Assam at a cost of Rs 186.62 billion (Rs 18,662 crore). The project cost was announced as Rs 18,662 crore and will be funded by the central government. The decision is expected to mark a major step in enhancing connectivity in the northeast. Officials said the approval follows inter-ministerial deliberations and is part of a broader push to upgrade transport infrastructure in the region. The tunnel will provide a direct multimodal link across the river, aiming to reduce travel time and improve reliability for passenger and freight movement. Officials indicated the development will support regional trade and integration with national corridors. The scheme is positioned as a strategic infrastructure intervention to boost economic activity in Assam and neighbouring areas. Improved year-round access across the river is expected to benefit local communities, reduce logistical bottlenecks and support disaster response capabilities. The project will proceed through detailed engineering, environmental clearances and phased construction under government supervision. Authorities have emphasised adherence to environmental and safety standards while undertaking underwater tunnelling. A dedicated project management structure will oversee procurement, technical audits and monitoring of progress. Contractors will be selected through transparent competitive bidding processes. The investment is likely to generate employment during construction and to strengthen logistics resilience for the region on completion. Analysts noted that such large scale interventions can catalyse ancillary investments in roads, urban services and industry. The Cabinet approval is the precursor to work commencing on the ground once requisite statutory and procedural clearances are secured. The government will publish detailed project reports and timelines as statutory approvals are completed and contracts are finalised.