The construction of six new Gati Shakti cargo terminals under the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is nearing completion, marking a major push to strengthen Assam’s logistics infrastructure. Officials said the first terminal, located at Baihata in Kamrup district, is expected to become operational soon. Also, the project is part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to integrate transport networks and boost freight efficiency across the Northeast.
Baihata Terminal Set to Lead Assam’s Logistics Expansion
The Baihata Gati Shakti terminal is emerging as the flagship facility under the current development phase. The site has recorded fast-paced progress, supported by its strategic location near major road and rail corridors. NFR officials indicated that once operational, Baihata will reduce freight handling time and allow industries in the region quicker access to national markets.
The terminal’s design includes modern loading bays, automated systems, and multimodal connectivity, which aligns with Gati Shakti’s larger vision of coordinated transport infrastructure. Its activation is expected to encourage private sector participation in cargo movement. With Assam’s industrial clusters growing rapidly, the Baihata terminal’s launch is being viewed as a timely infrastructure boost.
Five More Cargo Terminals Close to Completion
Alongside Baihata, five other Gati Shakti cargo terminals across Assam are advancing simultaneously. Moreover, these include sites in Tinsukia, Bongaigaon, New Bongaigaon, Silchar, and Gauripur, where construction work has reached advanced stages. Each terminal is designed to support specific industrial needs of its location, ranging from agricultural commodities to coal, cement, and FMCG goods.
NFR officials said the uniform progress across all six terminals reflects coordinated planning under the Gati Shakti framework. The terminals aim to reduce logistical bottlenecks that have long hindered economic growth in the Northeast. Faster cargo movement is expected to lower transport costs for businesses and increase the region’s competitiveness in the national supply chain.
Boost to Assam’s Trade, Industry, and Employment
The new terminals are expected to bring multiple economic benefits to Assam. Improved freight infrastructure will make it easier for industries in districts like Margherita, Dibrugarh, and Barak Valley to export products to other states. It will also enable smoother transportation of essential commodities such as food grains, petroleum products, and construction materials.
Local employment is another expected outcome, as the management and operation of the terminals will require skilled and semi-skilled manpower. Officials said the state government is working with NFR. To ensure that local youth receive opportunities in the logistics and transportation sector. With Assam aiming to attract fresh industrial investments, the cargo terminals are likely to play a key role in supporting future manufacturing units.
Integration with National Logistics Policies
The Gati Shakti terminals being developed in Assam are part of a broader national infrastructure plan. Also, the Ministry of Railways is pushing to develop at least 100 Gati Shakti cargo terminals across India by 2026, and the Northeast is receiving special focus due to its strategic location. Assam serves as a gateway to Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy, making efficient logistics infrastructure essential for future cross-border trade.
The construction aligns with the Bharatmala and Sagarmala projects, which aim to integrate highways, ports, and rail networks. The coordination between these sectors is expected to significantly reduce logistics costs. Which currently remain higher in the Northeast compared to other regions. The new cargo terminals will help streamline freight flow and complement upcoming industrial corridors.
Assam’s Rising Role in India’s Northeast Logistics Map
Assam’s importance in the national logistics landscape has increased significantly over the past decade. With the state now developing multiple cargo terminals, inland waterways, expanded highways, and upgraded airports. It is positioning itself as the Northeast’s logistics capital. The upcoming Baihata terminal is expected to become a central node, connecting the region to major trade routes.
Businesses across sectors including tea, coal, cement, food processing, and pharmaceuticals will benefit from the added freight capacity. Improved infrastructure may also encourage companies to set up warehouses. And distribution centers in Assam. Further, the growing logistics network is expected to gradually shift more cargo from road to rail, reducing carbon emissions while cutting transport costs.
Public and Industry Stakeholders Urged to Collaborate
Officials noted that the success of Gati Shakti cargo terminals depends on strong participation from private players. Altogether, the Indian Railways has encouraged industries to adopt public-private partnership models and create long-term freight agreements. Local traders, transport companies, and agro-based industries have also been urged to integrate their operations with the new terminals.
The state government has said the improved transport network will benefit small and medium enterprises as well, offering them faster delivery channels and better access to markets. With Assam aiming to strengthen its manufacturing ecosystem, coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors will be crucial.