Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi performs Bhoomi Pujan of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project

Assam:18/1/26: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 ₹6,950 Crore in Kaliabor, Assam today. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, Shri Modi expressed gratitude to the people, noting that such a large number had come to bless him and said he was deeply thankful. He remarked that on visiting Kaziranga again, memories of his previous trip came alive, recalling that two years ago, the moments spent in Kaziranga were among the most special experiences of his life. PM Modi highlighted that he had the opportunity to spend the night at Kaziranga National Park and the next morning, during an elephant safari, he experienced the beauty of the region up close.

Emphasising that visiting Assam always brings him immense joy, Shri Modi described it as the land of the brave and of sons and daughters who showcase their talent in every field. He pointed out that just yesterday he attended the Bagurumba Dwhou festival in Guwahati, where daughters of the Bodo community set a new record with their performance. PM Modi highlighted the extraordinary presentation of Bagurumba, with the energy of more than 10,000 artists, the rhythm of kham, and the melody of sifung, which mesmerized everyone. He remarked that the experience of Bagurumba touched the eyes and reached the heart. The Prime Minister praised the artists of Assam for their remarkable effort, preparation, and coordination, calling it truly wonderful. He extended his congratulations once again to all the artists who participated in the Bagurumba Dwhou festival. He thanked all the social media influencers and TV media for promoting the event to reach out to the nation and the world.

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 ₹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.

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.

Governor of Assam, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Shri Pabitra Margherita, were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

Prime Minister performed Bhoomi Pujan of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project (4-Laning of Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of NH-715), worth over ₹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, a 21 km Bypass section, and a 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 the uninterrupted movement of animals and 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 residents.

During the programme, the Prime Minister also flagged off 2 New Amrit Bharat Express trains – Guwahati (Kamakhya)-Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express and Dibrugarh-Lucknow (Gomti Nagar) Amrit Bharat Express. These new train services will strengthen rail connectivity between the Northeast and Northern India, enabling safer and more convenient travel for the people.