Guwahati, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Northeastern part of India has been granted a remarkable enhancement in rail connectivity and infrastructure development as part of the Union Budget 2026-27 under the Viksit Bharat initiative, with an allocation of Rs 11,486 crore designated for railway projects, as announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday.

In his update on X, Sarma conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the ongoing support towards expanding railways in the region. He emphasized that this increased allocation would significantly boost connectivity, economic development, and strategic infrastructure across the Northeast.

The Chief Minister noted that this budget allocation represents a substantial increase from the Rs 10,440 crore allocated in 2025–26. He remarked that railway initiatives totaling Rs 72,468 crore are currently in progress across Assam and other Northeastern states, highlighting the Centre’s enduring commitment to transforming the transportation framework of the region.

Sarma pointed out that vital rail connections to Bhutan are on the horizon, specifically through the Kokrajhar–Gelephu and Banarhat–Samtse routes, which will enhance cross-border connectivity and facilitate trade.

Additionally, a high-speed rail corridor is set to be established leading to Guwahati, making the city a pivotal rail center in eastern India. The Chief Minister shared that 96 percent of the railway electrification in the region has been accomplished, leading to improved efficiency and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

As part of the station modernization efforts, 60 stations are undergoing redevelopment via the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme to enhance passenger facilities and infrastructure.

Sarma also noted the deployment of sophisticated AI-driven thermal cameras and detection systems aimed at protecting elephant corridors, ensuring that railway expansion is conducted with wildlife preservation in mind.

This approach is seen as essential in achieving a balance between infrastructural development and environmental safeguarding. Furthermore, he mentioned the commencement of the first Vande Bharat Sleeper train service on the Guwahati–Kolkata route, greatly enhancing long-distance travel comfort and reducing travel time between Assam and the eastern part of India.

Stressing that Assam is firmly on a path of growth, Sarma affirmed that the heightened budgetary provisions for railways would be instrumental in propelling mobility, trade, tourism, and comprehensive economic development across the Northeast in line with the Viksit Bharat framework.