New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) In a significant move to improve infrastructure in Assam, the Centre announced on Friday the green light for the development of ten roads and 16 bridges.

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari revealed that Rs 617.98 crore has been allocated for these road projects under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) Scheme, along with an extra Rs 129.74 crore approved for the bridge initiatives under the CRIF Setu Bandhan Scheme.

In a statement on X, Gadkari emphasized that these projects are vital for enhancing regional connectivity, boosting transportation efficiency, and minimizing travel times throughout Assam.

He pointed out that strong road and bridge infrastructure is essential to the Centre’s vision of inclusive development and seamless connectivity, especially in strategically significant areas like the Northeast.

Officials noted that the sanctioned road projects will target the upgrading and enhancement of crucial stretches that act as key links connecting districts, markets, and industrial centers.

The bridge projects under the Setu Bandhan Scheme are designed to replace aging and inadequate structures and construct new bridges to guarantee safer and uninterrupted transit, particularly in flood-prone and river-rich regions of the state.

The Assam government has welcomed this approval, stating that these projects will significantly enhance local trade, enable smoother movement of goods and people, and support agriculture, small enterprises, and tourism.

Improved connectivity is also anticipated to facilitate greater access to healthcare, education, and other essential services in remote and rural areas.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has consistently underscored infrastructure development as a core element of Assam’s growth strategy.

The latest CRIF approvals are in line with the overarching ‘PM Gati Shakti’ National Master Plan, which seeks to synchronize infrastructure planning across various sectors and states for more rapid and efficient project execution.

The Centre has been steadily increasing its investments in Assam’s road infrastructure over the past few years, recognizing it as a gateway to the Northeast and a crucial component of India’s Act East policy.

With the newly approved projects, Assam is poised to experience enhanced logistics efficiency, lowered transportation costs, and accelerated socio-economic development, reinforcing the state’s significance in India’s broader growth narrative.