Has the Union Cabinet Approved the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor?
Synopsis
Assam's Chief Minister has confirmed the Union Cabinet's approval for the Kaziranga elevated corridor project, a significant step in balancing wildlife conservation with improved connectivity. Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone later this month, highlighting the project's importance to Assam's development.
Key Takeaways
Kaziranga elevated corridor approved by the Union Cabinet.
Project cost estimated at over Rs 6,000 crore .
Will enhance connectivity in Upper Assam .
Reduces wildlife fatalities from traffic.
Prime Minister Modi to lay foundation stone on January 18 .
Guwahati, Jan 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, revealed on Friday that the Union Cabinet has sanctioned the state government’s prestigious initiative to construct an elevated corridor traversing Kaziranga National Park. This strategic project is designed to enhance wildlife protection while simultaneously improving connectivity in Upper Assam.
During a press briefing, Sarma mentioned that the elevated corridor, which will span from Bokakhat to Kaziranga, is projected to cost over Rs 6,000 crore.
Sarma characterized the corridor as a pivotal development that harmonizes infrastructure growth with environmental conservation. He stated, “This elevated corridor will drastically lower wildlife fatalities caused by traffic while facilitating safe transit for animals across the park.”
The Chief Minister also pointed out that this project would curtail travel time between Guwahati and Jorhat, thereby bolstering economic and tourism opportunities in the area. Upon completion, the corridor is expected to create sustainable revenue streams for the state, including around 9 percent GST and extra income linked to forest activities.
Sarma announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Assam on January 17. During this visit, the Prime Minister will launch the inaugural Vande Bharat sleeper train service connecting Kolkata and Guwahati, which will significantly enhance rail connectivity in the Northeast.
Moreover, new train routes from Dibrugarh to Lucknow and from Guwahati to Rohtak via Delhi will be introduced, further linking Assam with vital regions of the country.
During his visit, the Prime Minister will also experience the traditional Bodo dance, Bagurumba, showcasing Assam’s rich cultural heritage on a national stage.
On January 18, PM Modi will visit Kaziranga to lay the foundation stone for the elevated corridor project. Sarma emphasized that the Prime Minister’s visit underscores the Centre’s dedication to Assam’s growth and environmentally conscious infrastructure.
The elevated corridor has long been a key initiative for the Assam government, aimed at addressing the historic tension between conservation and connectivity.
With the Cabinet's approval secured, officials anticipate a swift transition into the implementation phase, marking a significant stride towards sustainable development in the state.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of the Union Cabinet's approval for the Kaziranga elevated corridor. This initiative exemplifies a thoughtful approach to balancing infrastructure demands with ecological conservation. It's a positive step forward for Assam, aligning with the nation's broader goals of sustainable development.
NationPress
7 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kaziranga elevated corridor?
The Kaziranga elevated corridor is a proposed infrastructure project aimed at constructing an elevated road through Kaziranga National Park to improve connectivity while protecting wildlife.
When will Prime Minister Modi inaugurate the project?
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for the elevated corridor project on January 18.
How much will the project cost?
The estimated cost of the Kaziranga elevated corridor project is over Rs 6,000 crore.
What benefits will this corridor bring?
The corridor is expected to reduce wildlife mortality due to vehicular traffic, shorten travel times between key cities, and boost tourism and economic activity in the region.
How does this project align with environmental concerns?
The project is designed to ensure safe passage for animals and mitigate the impact of human activity on wildlife, representing a balance between development and conservation.
