Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet’s decision approving the widening of NH-715 and developing an elevated corridor for Rs 6,957 crore in Assam will ensure safe wildlife passage and faster travel as well as boost eco-tourism and generate jobs in the state, said Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. He hailed the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for approving the widening and improvement of the existing highway to 4 lanes of the Kaliabor–Numaligarh section of NH-715, including wildlife-friendly measures on the Kaziranga National Park (KNP) stretch in Assam.
The project will be implemented in Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode, with a total length of 85.675 km and a capital cost of Rs 6,957 crore. It also includes the ambitious 34km elevated corridor in Kaziranga, which will ease traffic movement and, at the same time, save the lives of animals who often fall victim to accidents. “A historic day for Assam and a giant leap for India’s sustainable development. This project reflects the vision of our visionary Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, whose heart beats for the people of Assam and the pride of our state — Kaziranga National Park,” Sonowal said.
“The monumental 34.45 km elevated corridor will ensure a free, safe, and uninterrupted passage for wildlife between Kaziranga and Karbi Anglong Hills. It is a promise to protect our natural heritage while building a brighter future for our people,” Sonowal added. Highlighting the economic significance of the project, the Union Minister said the new corridor will improve connectivity and enable new growth in the state.
