GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that Assam's first underwater tunnel will be constructed between Numaligarh and Gohpur at an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crores. This landmark project will be the first-ever rail-road tunnel under the Brahmaputra river in northeast India. The tenders for the project are set to open next month.
Expressing his excitement, Chief Minister Sarma revealed that he had once dreamt of such an underwater tunnel in Assam but was unsure of its feasibility. However, he shared that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has now given the green signal to proceed with the construction. The state government embarked on a search for the most suitable location for the underwater tunnel, ultimately selecting Gohpur and Numaligarh.
Speaking at an event, CM Sarma said, “We have planned to build an underwater tunnel between Gohpur and Numaligarh through Brahmaputra. The estimated cost of the tunnel will be around Rs 6,000 crores.”
“Once I dreamt of making such an underwater tunnel in Assam, however, I could not think whether it could be possible or not. But now Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the green signal to build the tunnel,” Sarma said.
“When the tunnel will be built, it will further connect the north and south banks of Brahmaputra River,” he added.
Sarma emphasized that the decision to construct a tunnel under the Brahmaputra River was initiated after consultations with the central government. The high command in Delhi inquired about the feasibility of such a project, and after careful discussions, it was determined that a rail-road underwater tunnel between Gohpur and Numaligarh would be feasible. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 6,000 crore.
The Assam chief minister disclosed that the first tender for the project will open on July 4, 2023. He also added that if everything proceeds as planned, the construction of the tunnel will commence during his tenure. To ensure smooth progress, preparations for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and land selection are underway.
This ambitious project holds immense significance for Assam and the northeastern region of India. The construction of an underwater tunnel under the Brahmaputra River will bring about a transformational change in transportation infrastructure. It will significantly improve connectivity between Numaligarh and Gohpur, making travel more convenient and efficient.
The tunnel is expected to provide substantial benefits to the region, including enhanced trade and commerce opportunities, improved connectivity for residents, and boosted tourism. Currently, crossing the Brahmaputra river requires the use of ferries or bridges, which can be time-consuming and prone to disruptions during monsoon season when the river swells. The underwater tunnel will mitigate these challenges and offer a reliable and efficient transportation alternative.
The Assam government's proactive approach in pursuing this groundbreaking project demonstrates its commitment to advancing infrastructure development in the state. The underwater tunnel holds the promise of boosting economic growth, attracting investments, and fostering regional integration. With the tender process set to commence in July 2023, the project is expected to gain momentum, and the construction phase will mark a significant milestone for Assam's transportation infrastructure.
The Assam Chief Minister's vision, combined with the support of the central government, underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving progress. Once completed, the Numaligarh-Gohpur underwater tunnel will not only enhance connectivity but also serve as a symbol of Assam's determination to overcome geographical barriers and transform its transportation landscape.
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