In a significant move to enhance infrastructure in India's northeastern region, an inter-ministerial panel has given the green light for the construction of an under-river tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This ambitious project aims to connect Numaligarh and Gohpur, thereby improving connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
The proposed tunnel, estimated to cost around ₹6,000 crore, will span approximately 14.85 kilometers and is designed to accommodate both vehicular and rail traffic. The project is expected to be executed in three phases and will feature four lanes, facilitating the movement of heavy military vehicles and other machinery. This development is anticipated to significantly reduce travel time and enhance strategic mobility in the region.
The tunnel's construction will employ state-of-the-art techniques, allowing vehicles to operate at speeds of up to 80 km/h. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has been entrusted with the project's execution, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared by the US-based firm Louis Berger.
Conversely, the panel has returned two proposed tunnel projects in Jammu & Kashmir, citing several deficiencies. The projects in question, including the Singhpora-Vailoo tunnel, were found to have substantial cost implications, with estimates around ₹8,900 crore. Additionally, the panel noted that there were existing roads connecting the origin and destination points, diminishing the necessity for new tunnels.
Further concerns included the lack of strategic importance of these projects, as they did not fall under the category of strategic roads for the defense ministry. The NHIDCL, responsible for proposing these projects, failed to provide comprehensive traffic data and evidence of direct benefits, leading the panel to conclude that the proposals lacked sufficient justification.
The decision to approve the Brahmaputra tunnel while returning the Jammu & Kashmir projects underscores the government's focus on prioritizing infrastructure developments that offer clear strategic and economic benefits. The Brahmaputra tunnel is poised to play a crucial role in bolstering regional connectivity and fostering economic growth in the northeastern states.
As the project progresses, it is expected to set a precedent for future infrastructure endeavors, emphasizing the importance of thorough planning, strategic relevance, and cost-effectiveness in national development initiatives.
