India's First Underwater Rail-Road Tunnel: A Historic Leap for Assam

The Indian government has approved the construction of the country's first twin-tube underwater road-cum-rail tunnel in Assam, marking a significant milestone. Costing Rs 18,662 crore, the 33.7 km corridor will reduce travel time significantly, enhance trade, tourism, and industrial growth, and serve as a strategic asset for the region.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a landmark development for the state with the central government's approval of India's first twin-tube underwater road-cum-rail tunnel. The infrastructure project will link Gohpur and Numaligarh, promising to transform transportation in the region.

The ambitious project, sanctioned by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, comes with a capital investment of Rs 18,662 crore. The corridor spans 33.7 km, including a 15.79 km tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River, and aims to cut the travel time from six hours to just 20 minutes.

Chief Minister Sarma highlighted the tunnel's strategic value as a lifeline boosting trade, tourism, and industry in Assam and the Northeast. It will be the fourth rail line to cross the Brahmaputra, enhancing logistics and passenger mobility. Sarma also expressed gratitude toward Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for supporting this visionary project, which will accelerate Assam's developmental progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)