Land acquisition for the Umiam (Barapani)-Silchar high-speed corridor project has commenced in Assam, as reported by Chief Secretary Ravi Kota. The project primarily affects Meghalaya, with around 85% of the land acquisition to be managed by the Meghalaya government under hill council regulations, while the remaining 15% in Assam has already begun. The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has finalized planning for the project, with environmental clearance anticipated within four to five weeks. Tenders for construction are set to be issued before February 28, and the highway is projected to be completed within 48 months after the start of construction.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the express highway’s role in significantly decreasing the travel time between Guwahati and Silchar. Furthermore, there is a proposal for an additional six-lane project between Guwahati and Byrnihat. Upon completion of these initiatives, connectivity between Barak Valley and other regions of Assam will be greatly enhanced, with travel time reduced to around six hours.
The Union Cabinet has approved the development of the high-speed corridor, with an estimated budget of Rs 22,864 crore. This project will comprise a 166.80-km, four-lane, access-controlled greenfield highway, constructed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode. The route will extend from Mawlyngkhung near Umiam Lake in Meghalaya to Panchgram near Silchar in Assam, with the majority, 144.80 km, traversing Meghalaya and 22 km in Assam. This corridor is a key part of National Highway-06.
