Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 13: The Centre has approved a series of infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening road and bridge networks across Assam, sanctioning a total of Rs 747.72 crore under key central schemes.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that Rs 617.98 crore has been allocated for 10 road development works under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). In addition, Rs 129.74 crore has been sanctioned for 16 bridge projects under the CRIF Setu Bandhan Scheme.
In a post on X, Gadkari said the approved projects would significantly improve connectivity, streamline transportation and reduce travel time across the state. He underlined that strong transport infrastructure remains central to the government’s vision of inclusive growth, particularly in strategically vital regions such as the Northeast.
Officials said the road projects will focus on upgrading key stretches that connect districts, commercial centres and industrial zones. Meanwhile, the bridge works are designed to replace ageing and vulnerable structures while constructing new ones to ensure safer and uninterrupted movement — especially in Assam’s flood-prone and riverine areas.
The Assam government welcomed the approvals, noting that improved connectivity would stimulate trade, facilitate smoother movement of goods and passengers, and strengthen sectors such as agriculture, tourism and small enterprises. Enhanced infrastructure is also expected to improve access to essential services, including healthcare and education, in rural and remote areas.
Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has consistently identified infrastructure development as a cornerstone of the state’s economic strategy.
The newly cleared projects align with the broader PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which seeks integrated and coordinated infrastructure planning across states and sectors for faster implementation.
With sustained central investment positioning Assam as a key gateway to the Northeast and a crucial link in India’s Act East policy, the latest approvals are expected to enhance logistics efficiency, lower transport costs and accelerate the state’s socio-economic progress.