Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed two loan agreements in Meghalaya to enhance connectivity in the Northeast region of India. The first agreement, worth JPY 34,537 million yen (approximately INR 1,946 crores), is for the construction of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge, India’s longest river bridge, connecting Assam and Meghalaya across the Brahmaputra River.
The second agreement, worth JPY 15,561 million yen (approximately INR 877 crores), aims to improve the National Highway 127B from Phulbari to Goeragre in the state. Both projects align with the Government of India’s priority to reduce regional disparities and promote socio-economic development in the Northeast region by improving road infrastructure.
The loan agreements were signed between Mr. Vikas Sheel, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative, JICA India. The successful implementation of these projects requires collaboration among various stakeholders. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India office said, “This stretch between Phulbari and Goeragre will bridge the missing link from the East-West Corridor to the border town of Dalu, Meghalaya, and once completed the region will have the potential to become a new economic corridor through increased connectivity with neighboring countries.”
