An underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck will ensure a secure and reliable route to the Northeast, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said while underlining the strategic importance of connectivity for the region. According to him, the proposed project will significantly strengthen national security while also improving transport resilience for the northeastern states.
Speaking on regional connectivity, the chief minister explained that the narrow stretch known as Chicken’s Neck has long remained a strategic vulnerability. Therefore, developing an underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck will reduce risks linked to disruption, natural disasters, and external threats. At the same time, it will ensure uninterrupted movement of people, goods, and essential supplies to the Northeast.
Moreover, the proposal reflects India’s evolving approach to infrastructure planning, where security and development go hand in hand. By focusing on long-term solutions, the government aims to future-proof connectivity to one of the country’s most strategically sensitive regions.
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Underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck addresses strategic concerns
The underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck directly addresses long-standing strategic concerns related to the narrow land corridor connecting the Northeast with the rest of India. This corridor, formally known as the Siliguri Corridor, measures only a few kilometres at its narrowest point. Consequently, it has remained vulnerable to both geopolitical tensions and natural challenges.
CM Sarma said an underground alignment would add a critical layer of security. Unlike surface routes, underground infrastructure faces fewer risks from external disruption. Therefore, such a rail link would ensure continuity even during emergencies.
In addition, the chief minister pointed out that modern engineering allows for safe and efficient underground transport systems. As a result, India can adopt proven global practices to strengthen connectivity without disturbing surface-level ecosystems and settlements.
Ensuring secure connectivity to the Northeast
Secure connectivity remains vital for the Northeast, given its geographical location and strategic significance. The underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck, according to CM Sarma, will play a key role in safeguarding supply chains. Therefore, essential goods, defence logistics, and civilian movement can continue smoothly under all circumstances.
Furthermore, improved security reassures investors and industries looking at the Northeast as a growth destination. When transport routes remain stable, businesses gain confidence to expand operations. Consequently, the project could support broader economic development across the region.
The chief minister also stressed that connectivity defines integration. By strengthening the physical link to the Northeast, the government reinforces emotional and economic ties between the region and the rest of the country.
Complementing existing transport infrastructure
The underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck will complement existing road and rail networks rather than replace them. CM Sarma explained that redundancy in infrastructure ensures resilience. Therefore, if one route faces disruption, alternative channels can handle traffic.
At present, surface routes through the Siliguri Corridor carry immense pressure. Heavy freight, passenger trains, and road transport all rely on limited space. Consequently, congestion and wear remain constant challenges. An underground rail corridor would ease this burden and distribute traffic more efficiently.
Moreover, planners can design the project to integrate seamlessly with national rail networks. This integration will allow faster transit times and improved logistics planning.
Economic and development implications
Beyond security, the underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck carries strong economic implications. CM Sarma said reliable connectivity lowers transportation costs and improves market access for northeastern states. As a result, agricultural produce, handicrafts, and industrial goods can reach national markets more efficiently.
In addition, improved logistics support tourism growth. When travel becomes easier and safer, tourist inflow increases. Therefore, the Northeast’s rich cultural and natural attractions stand to gain from better connectivity.
The project may also generate employment during construction and operation. Large infrastructure initiatives often create jobs for engineers, technicians, and local workers. Consequently, communities near the corridor could see economic benefits.
Addressing environmental and technical challenges
CM Sarma acknowledged that underground projects involve complex engineering and environmental considerations. However, he stressed that careful planning and modern technology can address these challenges effectively. Therefore, environmental impact assessments and geological studies will guide decision-making.
Underground construction can minimise surface disruption. As a result, forests, wildlife corridors, and human settlements face fewer disturbances compared to surface expansion. This approach aligns with sustainable development goals.
Moreover, the chief minister said stakeholder consultation remains essential. By engaging experts, local communities, and environmental groups, authorities can ensure balanced outcomes.
National security perspective
From a national security perspective, the underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck adds strategic depth. CM Sarma explained that secure infrastructure strengthens preparedness during emergencies. Therefore, defence logistics and civilian evacuation plans can rely on robust transport networks.
He also noted that global examples show how underground infrastructure enhances resilience in sensitive regions. By learning from international best practices, India can strengthen its strategic posture without escalating tensions.
Furthermore, secure connectivity reassures citizens in the Northeast. When people trust infrastructure, they feel more connected and confident about the future.
Coordination between Centre and states
The success of the underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck will depend on close coordination between the Centre and states. CM Sarma said Assam and other northeastern states stand ready to cooperate with central agencies.
Such coordination ensures smooth land acquisition, regulatory approvals, and project execution. Moreover, shared responsibility accelerates timelines and improves accountability.
The chief minister expressed optimism that the project would receive necessary support, given its national importance. Therefore, he expects momentum to build in the coming months.
Long-term vision for Northeast connectivity
The underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck fits into a broader long-term vision for Northeast connectivity. Over recent years, the government has invested heavily in roads, bridges, railways, and air links across the region. Consequently, integration has improved significantly.
However, CM Sarma said strategic gaps still require attention. Therefore, underground connectivity offers a forward-looking solution that anticipates future challenges rather than reacting to crises.
By strengthening the most sensitive link, the government ensures that progress in the Northeast remains uninterrupted.
Conclusion
The proposal for an underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck marks a strategic shift in how India approaches connectivity to the Northeast. According to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the project will ensure a secure, reliable, and future-ready route to the region.
By combining security, development, and sustainability, the underground rail link along Chicken’s Neck promises long-term benefits. It strengthens national integration, supports economic growth, and enhances resilience in a critical corridor.
As planning advances, the project will remain under close watch. Nevertheless, its strategic intent sends a clear message: secure connectivity to the Northeast remains a national priority, and innovative infrastructure solutions will drive that vision forward.
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