Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi performed Bhoomi Pujan of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project (4-Laning of Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715), worth over Rs 6,950 Crore in Kaliabor, Assam.
Shri Modi highlighted that just a month ago he came for development projects, inaugurating the new terminal building of the expanded Lokpriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati and laying the foundation stone of the Ammonia Urea Complex in Namrup. He remarked that such occasions have further strengthened their government’s mantra of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi.”
Prime Minister recalled the words of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, who described Kaziranga’s beauty with deep affection, noting that his lines reflected both love for Kaziranga and the Assamese people’s bond with nature. He emphasized that Kaziranga is not just a National Park but the soul of Assam and a priceless jewel of India’s biodiversity, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. He underlined that protecting Kaziranga and its wildlife is not only about safeguarding the environment but also a responsibility towards Assam’s future and coming generations. Shri Modi announced the launch of new projects from Assam’s soil, congratulating the people for initiatives that will have a wide impact.
Highlighting that Kaziranga is home to the one-horned rhinoceros, the Prime Minister explained the challenges faced during floods when wildlife seeks higher ground and must cross the National Highway, often getting trapped. He stated that the government’s effort is to ensure smooth traffic while keeping the forest safe. He informed that under this vision, a 90-kilometre corridor from Kaliabor to Numaligarh is being developed at a cost of about Rs 7,000 crore, including a 35-kilometre elevated wildlife corridor. Vehicles will pass above while wildlife movement below will remain unhindered, with the design prepared keeping in mind traditional movement routes of rhinos, elephants and tigers. Shri Modi remarked that the corridor will also improve connectivity between Upper Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and along with new rail services, will open fresh opportunities for the people. He congratulated the people of Assam and the nation for these important projects.
Prime Minister also announced the launch of three new train services from Kaliabor, marking a significant expansion in Assam’s rail connectivity. He said the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will connect Guwahati to Kolkata, making long-distance travel more comfortable, while two Amrit Bharat Express trains will cover important stations across Assam, West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, directly benefiting lakhs of passengers. Shri Modi underlined that these trains will connect Assam’s traders to new markets, provide students easier access to educational opportunities, and simplify travel across different parts of the country. He remarked that such connectivity expansion builds confidence that the North East is no longer on the margins of development, no longer distant, but close to the heart and close to Delhi.
Shri Modi highlighted that Assam’s development is opening new doors for the progress of the entire North East and is giving direction to the Act East Policy. He emphasized that when Assam advances, the North East advances, and with the government’s efforts and the trust of the people, the region will reach new heights. Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister once again congratulated everyone on the projects inaugurated today.
Background
Prime Minister performed Bhoomi Pujan of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project (4-Laning of Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715), worth over Rs 6,950 Crore.
The 86 km long Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project is an environmentally conscious National Highway project. It will feature 35 km of Elevated Wildlife Corridor that will pass through Kaziranga National Park, 21 km Bypass section and 30 km widening of the existing highway section of NH-715 from two to four lanes. The project aims to improve regional connectivity while ensuring protection of the park’s rich biodiversity.
The project will pass through Nagaon, Karbi Anglong and Golaghat districts and will significantly improve connectivity to Upper Assam, particularly Dibrugarh and Tinsukia. The elevated wildlife corridor will ensure uninterrupted movement of animals, reduce human-wildlife conflict. It will also enhance road safety, reduce travel time and accident rates, and support growing passenger and freight traffic. As part of the project, Bypasses will be developed at Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat that will help to decongest towns, improve urban mobility and enhance the quality of life for local residents.
