Assam Seeks Rail Expansion To Boost Connectivity

05 Nov 2025 CW Team

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in New Delhi on 2 November, urging for an expanded rail network across the state to strengthen both intra-state and international connectivity.

The 25-minute meeting focused on proposals designed to improve transport infrastructure and economic integration in the region. Sarma requested the introduction of three new Amrit Bharat trains to and from Assam, aimed at enhancing passenger accessibility and supporting regional economic activity.

Among his key proposals was a new railway line linking Umrangso in Dima Hasao district with Lanka in Hojai district. He noted that the link would boost connectivity between the hilly and central parts of Assam, while also opening new avenues for trade and tourism.

The chief minister further called for the early completion of the Kokrajhar–Gelephu railway line, a strategic project expected to become a vital transport corridor between India and Bhutan, promoting cross-border trade and cooperation.

Sarma also proposed additional stoppages for major trains passing through Assam to make rail services more accessible for local commuters across various districts.

Following the discussions, Sarma stated that the railway minister had responded positively and agreed to act on the proposed initiatives — including the introduction of new Amrit Bharat trains, the development of the Umrangso–Lanka rail link, and the expedited completion of the Kokrajhar–Gelephu line.

Vaishnaw reportedly assured that the Railway Ministry would take prompt steps to implement the proposals, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving connectivity and fostering growth in Assam.

Infrastructure Urban

06 Jul 2026

ABS Marine Sees CRISIL Credit Rating Upgrade

ABS Marine Services has secured an upgrade to its long term and short term credit ratings from CRISIL, reflecting improved profitability and revenue growth through long term contracts. CRISIL moved the long term rating from BBB+/Stable to A-/Stable and revised the short term rating from A2 to A2+. The action signals strengthened financial metrics and operational resilience. The company benefited from durable client relationships with firms such as ONGC and Schlumberger. The rating decision followed stronger cash flows and an enlarged bank loan facility, which increased from Rs 3,705 million (m..

Project BRAHMANK Marks 16 Years Of Strategic Roads In Arunachal

Project BRAHMANK is marking 16 years of work to establish strategic road and bridge links across Arunachal Pradesh, maintaining and developing 811 kilometres of roads and nearly 86 bridges that range from small culverts to large steel and arch bridges. These transport links are described as critical for ensuring year-round movement of defence personnel, equipment and essential supplies while improving everyday travel for people in remote villages. The project balances national security requirements with regional development by focusing on reliable access in challenging terrain. Notable enginee..

Longleng CSOs Give One Week Ultimatum Over Two-Lane Highway

Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Longleng district have demanded immediate restoration of the deteriorating Changtongya–Longleng two-lane road and sought a detailed status report on the stalled construction within one week. The demand followed a consultative meeting convened under the Phom Peoples' Council (PPC) to discuss welfare and development concerns. PPC president YB Angam Phom said prolonged non-maintenance had caused hardship to commuters and affected transportation, local commerce and the district's development. The meeting urged authorities to undertake immediate restoration a..