Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday performed the Bhoomi Pujan of the ambitious Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project, a transformative infrastructure initiative worth more than ₹6,950 crore, aimed at improving connectivity in Assam while safeguarding the rich biodiversity of Kaziranga National Park.
The project involves the four-laning of the 86-kilometre Kaliabor–Numaligarh section of National Highway-715, including a specially designed 35-kilometre elevated wildlife corridor to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement of animals across the Kaziranga landscape.
The event was attended by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita, along with senior officials and local representatives.
A Project Designed for People and Nature
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project is being developed with a unique focus on balancing infrastructure growth with environmental conservation. The corridor includes:
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35 km of elevated stretches passing through Kaziranga National Park
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21 km of bypass roads at Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat
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30 km of highway widening, upgrading existing roads from two to four lanes
The design ensures that vehicles travel above ground level in sensitive forest areas, while wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, deer, and tigers can move freely beneath without disruption.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Modi said the project proves that “development and nature can coexist.” He described Kaziranga as “a priceless jewel of India’s biodiversity and the pride of Assam.”
Boost to Connectivity and Local Economy
Once completed, the corridor will significantly improve road connectivity across Upper Assam, particularly benefiting districts like Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, and Golaghat. It will also enhance travel links to major towns such as Dibrugarh and Tinsukia.
Officials say the project will:
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Reduce traffic congestion in key towns
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Improve road safety
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Support growing freight and passenger movement
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Boost tourism in and around Kaziranga
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Create new livelihood opportunities for local communities
PM Modi highlighted how tourism, handicrafts, homestays, transport services, and guide networks have already created jobs for Assam’s youth, and said better infrastructure will further strengthen this ecosystem.
Praising Assam’s Conservation Success
The Prime Minister also appreciated Assam’s efforts in protecting the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. He recalled that poaching had been a serious issue a decade ago, but strict measures and community participation have now brought the problem under control.
“Assam has shown the world how development can go hand in hand with conservation,” he said, applauding initiatives like ‘Van Durga’ and modern wildlife surveillance systems.
He also spoke about India’s broader environmental achievements, including expansion of tiger reserves, growth in Ramsar wetland sites, and nationwide campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.”
New Rail Connectivity for Assam
During the visit, PM Modi also flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains:
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Guwahati (Kamakhya) – Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express
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Dibrugarh – Lucknow (Gomti Nagar) Amrit Bharat Express
He said improved rail and road connectivity together will bring Assam closer to the rest of the country, promote trade, education, and tourism, and accelerate the overall development of the North East.
Focus on Assam’s Growth Journey
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said the North East is no longer on the margins of development. He pointed out that investment in infrastructure, highways, and railways in the region has increased sharply in recent years.
Also Read | Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Inaugurates 70 MW Dhubri Solar Power Project
He also emphasized the need to protect Assam’s culture, identity, and ecology, while warning against illegal encroachments and activities that harm the state’s natural heritage.
Key Highlights of the Kaziranga Corridor Project
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Total Cost: ₹6,950 crore
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Total Length: 86 km
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Elevated Wildlife Corridor: 35 km
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Bypass Roads: 21 km
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Highway Widening: 30 km
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Districts Covered: Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, Golaghat
A Landmark Step for Sustainable Development
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project is being seen as one of India’s most environment-sensitive highway projects. By combining modern infrastructure with wildlife protection, it sets a model for future development in ecologically fragile regions.
As the Prime Minister summed up, “This project is not just about roads and bridges. It is about respecting nature while building a better future for Assam and its people.”
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