Assam is poised for a major infrastructure transformation as two critical highway projects, collectively worth ₹7,000 crore, have been included in the National Highways Authority of India’s (NHAI) tentative list for the 2025-26 financial year. Spanning 98 kilometres, these projects aim to improve regional connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and incorporate eco-sensitive designs near Kaziranga National Park, aligning with sustainable development goals.
The initiatives are part of NHAI’s nationwide plan, which includes 124 projects covering 6,376 kilometres at an estimated cost of ₹3.45 lakh crore. Assam’s inclusion underscores the central government’s focus on boosting infrastructure in the Northeast, fostering economic growth and smoother transportation networks.
Key Projects: Elevated Highways with Ecological and Urban Benefits
The first project involves widening and upgrading the 86-kilometre Kaliabor to Numaligarh stretch of National Highway (NH), including a 35-kilometre elevated section through Kaziranga National Park. Priced at ₹5,500 crore, the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) project will safeguard nine animal corridors, minimizing disruption to wildlife while improving road efficiency.
“This is a landmark step in balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation,” said NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav. “The elevated stretch near Kaziranga will ensure uninterrupted animal movement, setting a precedent for future projects in ecologically sensitive zones.”
The second project is a 12-kilometre, six-lane elevated corridor connecting Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport to Jalukbari via Azara. With an estimated cost of ₹1,500 crore, the NH-17 corridor aims to decongest one of the city’s busiest routes, reducing travel time for commuters and tourists.
Strategic Importance for Assam and the Northeast
These projects are the only Northeastern entries in NHAI’s 2025-26 list, highlighting their significance for the region. Key expected benefits include:
Economic Growth: Improved logistics and reduced travel delays to support trade and industries.
Tourism Boost: Smoother access to Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Guwahati’s airport.
Eco-Friendly Design: Elevated sections near Kaziranga to prevent roadkill and habitat fragmentation.
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Guwahati airport corridor is underway, while the Kaziranga stretch awaits final environmental clearances. Officials aim to begin construction by early 2026, with completion expected within four years.
However, land acquisition and weather-related delays in the flood-prone region remain potential hurdles. NHAI has assured collaborative efforts with the Assam government to address these challenges.
