PM Modi Sanctions Rs 18,500 Crore Underwater Tunnel to Transform Northeast Connectivity
PM Modi launches Rs 18,500 crore Brahmaputra tunnel project to enhance Northeast connectivity and local employment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced a landmark infrastructure project under the Brahmaputra River near Gohpur, Assam, aimed at transforming connectivity in the Northeast. Addressing a large public rally in Biswanath district, the Prime Minister said the underwater tunnel, estimated at ₹18,500 crore, will substantially reduce travel time between Gohpur and Numaligarh, creating a “new dawn of connectivity” for the region.
“The tunnel will not only improve transportation but also generate significant employment opportunities for the people of Assam,” PM Modi said, emphasizing the strategic and economic importance of the project. He highlighted that the initiative would open new avenues for youth and regional development, positioning Assam as a hub of modern infrastructure in the Northeast.
The Prime Minister also reiterated welfare measures, noting that over 22 lakh families in Assam have received pucca houses, with another 15 lakh expected to benefit in the coming years. On women’s empowerment, he stated that around three lakh women have become “Lakhpati Baideo” under state schemes, with plans to expand the number to 40 lakh. The Orunodoi scheme, aimed at providing financial support to women, will also be expanded.
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In his speech, PM Modi outlined additional commitments, including the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code in Assam, expansion of agricultural support through the PM-Kisan scheme benefiting nearly 20 lakh farmers, and a Rs 18,000-crore investment plan to address the state’s recurring floods, including deepening the Subansiri River.
Infrastructure development in the past decade was highlighted, with Modi noting the completion of five bridges over the Brahmaputra and ongoing construction of five more. Healthcare and education infrastructure has also expanded, with medical colleges increasing from six to 14, and ten more under construction.
Taking a political dig at the opposition, PM Modi criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and accused the party of appeasement politics, saying the BJP remains committed to protecting indigenous communities, preserving Assam’s heritage, and delivering effective governance through a “double-engine government.” The underwater tunnel project is expected to be a flagship initiative demonstrating the Centre’s focus on connectivity and economic growth in the Northeast.
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