Assam government plans to develop 1,000 km of rural roads in state

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The state government is planning to develop rural roads measuring around 1,000 km in the state to make them on par with the national highway standard. Following a directive from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the PWD is identifying the roads for their development.

According to official sources, the state government has taken initiative with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for funding for the proposed road development works in the state.

The last government in the state took up some roads in the state for development up to the national highway standard under the Asom Mala Scheme. The PWD completed some of the roads, and some are under construction. The development of the Palasbari-Chandubi road in the Kamrup district is complete under Asom Mala. The road has made the visit of tourists to Chandubi a hassle-free affair.

Now, this government is going to start phase II of the Asom Mala Scheme to improve connectivity in rural Assam on a need-based basis. The plan is to develop long roads connecting some crucial rural areas.

According to preliminary estimates, 1,000 km of roads are to cost around Rs 3,500 crore. The PWD has already invited bids for consultancy services for the preparation of DPRs (detailed project reports) for the roads.

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