Kaziranga Elevated Corridor: PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Kaziranga Elevated Corridor, Flags Off Two Amrit Bharat Trains
Kaziranga Elevated Corridor - PM Modi Lays Foundation Stone for Kaziranga Elevated Corridor, Flags Off Two Amrit Bharat Trains
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the second day of his two-day visit to Assam, inaugurated several significant development projects for the state. He laid the foundation stone for the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor, a project valued at Rs 6,957 crore, which is set to revolutionize connectivity and economic development in the region, while concurrently, the Prime Minister also flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains, further strengthening the crucial rail links between the Northeast and North India. This visit underscores the central government's unwavering commitment to the development of the northeastern. States, marking PM Modi's second tour of the region in less than a month.
Kaziranga Elevated Corridor: A Visionary Project
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project, with its substantial investment of Rs 6,957 crore, is strategically focused on the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of National Highway-715, while this 86-kilometer-long eco-friendly national highway project has been meticulously designed to achieve the dual objectives of regional development and wildlife conservation. A pivotal component of this ambitious undertaking is the 35-kilometer-long elevated wildlife corridor, which will traverse directly through the renowned Kaziranga National Park. This elevated structure is anticipated to play a critical role in ensuring the safety of animals, particularly during the monsoon season when low-lying areas become inundated, often forcing wildlife onto the roads.Key Components and Objectives of the Project
The comprehensive scope of this project extends beyond just the elevated corridor, while in addition to the 35-kilometer elevated wildlife corridor, the initiative includes the development of a 21-kilometer bypass section, which will Notably alleviate traffic congestion in urban areas. Also, the existing 30-kilometer stretch of National Highway-715 will undergo an upgrade, expanding it from a two-lane to a four-lane configuration. The primary goals of this multifaceted project are to safeguard the rich biodiversity of the Kaziranga National Park while simultaneously enhancing regional connectivity. It represents a concerted effort to strike a delicate balance where infrastructural development and environmental preservation can coexist harmoniously.Enhanced Connectivity and New Avenues for Economic Growth
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor project is poised to traverse through the districts of Nagaon, Karbi Anglong, and Golaghat, promising a substantial improvement in connectivity across these regions. Crucially, it will bolster links to Upper Assam, encompassing vital cities such as Dibrugarh and Tinsukia. Improved road infrastructure will facilitate smoother passenger and freight traffic, thereby stimulating trade and commerce. The project is also expected to Notably boost tourism in the region, as easier access to the Kaziranga National Park will attract a greater influx of visitors, while this surge in tourism will invigorate the local economy and generate new employment opportunities for the youth.Wildlife Conservation and Mitigation of Human-Wildlife Conflict
A paramount aspect of this project is its focus on wildlife protection. The 35-kilometer elevated wildlife corridor will ensure the unimpeded movement of animals, thereby substantially reducing instances of human-wildlife conflict. Currently, animals face considerable risks of accidents while attempting to cross roads, especially during the monsoon. The elevated corridor will mitigate this danger Importantly, providing a safe passage for wildlife. This initiative will also contribute to improved road safety, reduce travel time, and decrease. The number of accidents, benefiting both commuters and the diverse wildlife of the region.Benefits for Local Communities
As part of the project, bypasses will be developed in Jakhlabandha and Bokakhat, while these bypasses are designed to play a crucial role in decongesting urban centers, leading to improved urban mobility and an enhanced quality of life for local residents. Reduced congestion won't only save travel time but also contribute to lower pollution levels. Also, the improved connectivity and increased economic activities stemming from the project will open up new avenues. For trade and industrial development, creating fresh employment opportunities and fostering significant economic progress for the entire region.Emphasis on Northeast Development
On this momentous occasion, Prime Minister Modi also flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains. These include the Guwahati (Kamakhya)-Rohtak Amrit Bharat Express and the Dibrugarh-Lucknow (Gomti Nagar) Amrit Bharat Express. These new rail services are set to strengthen the rail connectivity between the Northeast and Northern India. The Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed to offer passengers a safe and convenient travel experience, making long-distance journeys more accessible. This initiative will Importantly improve connectivity for the people of the Northeast, better integrating them with other parts of the country.
The Prime Minister's visit to Assam and the launch of these projects underscore the central government's unwavering commitment to the holistic development of the northeastern region. Strong infrastructure, whether road or rail, plays a pivotal role in unlocking the economic potential of the area and enhancing the lives of its inhabitants. These projects aren't merely about augmenting physical connectivity but also about fostering social and economic integration, thereby enabling Northeast India to connect more strongly with the national mainstream.