Guwahati, Feb 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressed his support on Friday for the proposed underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor. He characterized this initiative as a transformative project that will enhance connectivity between the Northeast and the rest of India, facilitating seamless movement of both passengers and goods.

In a post on the social media platform X, CM Sarma noted that this ambitious initiative would solidify India's strategic and economic ties with the Northeast, a region historically reliant on the narrow Siliguri Corridor, often dubbed the "Chicken's Neck," for surface transportation.

He extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that this visionary plan reflects the Centre's enduring commitment to national unity and equitable regional development.

"The envisaged underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor will significantly improve connectivity to the Northeast and ensure a continuous link for transporting passengers and goods. My heartfelt thanks to Adarniya @narendramodi ji for proposing this groundbreaking idea," CM Sarma shared.

On multiple occasions, the Chief Minister has emphasized the strategic vulnerabilities associated with the Siliguri Corridor, a slender strip of land that connects the Northeast to mainland India.

He has described it as not only a logistical essential but also a sensitive national security area, highlighting the urgent need for diverse and resilient connectivity options to safeguard economic activities and mobility in the region.

Previously, he has pointed out that reliance on a single surface corridor poses considerable risks during natural catastrophes, accidents, or other disruptions, which could effectively isolate the Northeast.

He has advocated for alternative routes and enhanced infrastructure solutions, including tunnels and improved rail and road networks, ensuring uninterrupted access at all times.

Officials indicated that the proposed underground railway tunnel would significantly mitigate such vulnerabilities by providing a secure, all-weather route through the Siliguri Corridor.

The project is anticipated to stimulate trade, tourism, and industrial growth in the Northeast by ensuring quicker and more reliable transportation of goods and raw materials.

Political analysts observe that the Centre's emphasis on enhancing connectivity to the Northeast aligns with its broader Act East and Viksit Bharat vision, positioning the region as a vital gateway to Southeast Asia.

With substantial investments already being made in highways, railways, bridges, and waterways, the proposed tunnel is regarded as another strategic move towards fully integrating the Northeast into India's economic framework.

The Assam government is confident that improved connectivity will unlock new growth opportunities while addressing long-standing infrastructural and strategic issues linked to the Chicken’s Neck corridor.