Assam to get first underwater tunnel!

30 Jun 2023 CW Team

The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, recently made an exciting announcement regarding the upcoming construction of Assam's inaugural underwater tunnel. This groundbreaking project aims to connect the regions of Numaligarh and Gohpur, establishing the first rail-road tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River in northeast India. With an estimated budget of Rs 6,000 crores, the tender process for this ambitious initiative is set to commence next month, marking a significant milestone in the development of the region's transportation infrastructure.

Prime Minister Modi has given his approval for the construction of this tunnel, highlighting the collaboration between the state and central governments as a crucial aspect of this project's success. The strong support from the high command in Delhi further underscores the importance of this undertaking.

The construction of an underwater tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River holds immense significance for Assam and the entire northeastern region. By connecting the north and south banks of the river, this tunnel will vastly improve the accessibility and convenience of travel between Numaligarh and Gohpur. Stretching approximately 15 kilometers, it is expected to bring about a transformative change in the region's transportation infrastructure.

The Numaligarh-Gohpur underwater tunnel is projected to yield substantial benefits for the region. It will facilitate increased trade and commerce opportunities, enhance connectivity for residents, and give a significant boost to tourism. Presently, crossing the Brahmaputra River necessitates the use of ferries or bridges, which can be time-consuming and hindered during the monsoon season. The construction of this underwater tunnel will alleviate these challenges, providing a reliable and efficient transportation alternative for the region.

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