In a significant boost to infrastructure and development initiatives in Assam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 18,000 crore during his visit to the state. This announcement comes as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering growth and progress in the northeastern region, with a focus on enhancing connectivity, promoting industrialization, and improving the quality of life for the people of Assam.
The slew of projects scheduled for inauguration and foundation stone laying covers a wide range of sectors, including road and highway development, healthcare infrastructure, education, and urban rejuvenation. These initiatives are aimed at addressing key challenges facing the state while unlocking its immense potential for economic growth and prosperity.
One of the flagship projects slated for inauguration is the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, also known as the Bhupen Hazarika Setu, which spans the Brahmaputra River and connects the districts of Tinsukia and Dhemaji in Assam. This iconic bridge, named after the legendary Assamese musician and cultural icon Bhupen Hazarika, is not only a symbol of engineering marvel but also a lifeline for the people of the region, facilitating seamless connectivity and trade between the two districts.
In addition to the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, Prime Minister Modi will also inaugurate the Numaligarh Refinery Expansion Project, which aims to enhance the refining capacity of the Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) from 3 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA) to 9 MMTPA. This expansion is expected to boost the production of petroleum products and contribute to the economic development of Assam and the entire northeastern region.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stones for several key infrastructure projects, including the AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) at Changsari and the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) at Guwahati. These prestigious institutions will not only provide state-of-the-art healthcare and education facilities but also serve as centers of excellence that attract talent and investment to the region.
The inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony will also witness the launch of various road and highway projects aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel time between key cities and towns in Assam. These include the construction of the North Guwahati-Dispur Road, the Numaligarh-Dibrugarh National Highway, and the Guwahati Bypass Road, among others. These road projects are expected to stimulate economic activity, boost trade and commerce, and enhance accessibility to remote areas in the state.
Moreover, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Mahabahu-Brahmaputra River Cruise Service, which aims to promote tourism and leisure activities along the majestic Brahmaputra River. This initiative underscores the government’s efforts to harness the potential of Assam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to drive tourism-led growth and create employment opportunities for local communities.
The significance of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Assam extends beyond the inauguration of infrastructure projects to the broader political and strategic dimensions. His presence underscores the government’s commitment to the development and welfare of the northeastern region, which has long been neglected in terms of infrastructure and economic investment. By prioritizing Assam’s development agenda, the government aims to foster a sense of inclusivity and empowerment among the people of the region, thereby strengthening the bonds of unity and national integration.
The inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony also provide an opportunity for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to showcase the achievements and aspirations of the state under his leadership. Since assuming office in May 2021, Chief Minister Sarma has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives aimed at transforming Assam into a vibrant hub of growth and opportunity. His proactive approach and vision for the state’s development have won accolades from both within and outside the state.
However, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Assam to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 18,000 crore is a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards progress and prosperity. The initiatives announced are expected to have a transformative impact on Assam’s economy, infrastructure, and quality of life, setting the stage for a brighter future for the people of the state. With the government’s unwavering commitment and Chief Minister Sarma’s dynamic leadership, Assam is poised to emerge as a shining example of inclusive and sustainable development in the northeastern region.
