Delhi, 30 April (H.S.): The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal for the Development, Maintenance, and Management of a 4-lane Greenfield Access Controlled National Highway No. 06, spanning 166.80 km from Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam, with a total capital cost of Rs. 22,864 crore. The project covers 144.80 km in Meghalaya and 22.00 km in Assam.

This high-speed corridor will enhance traffic services from Guwahati to Silchar, significantly improving connectivity to Tripura, Mizoram, Manipur, and the Barak Valley. With reduced travel distances and times, it aims to boost national logistics efficiency. The corridor will strengthen connections between Assam and Meghalaya, potentially fostering industrial growth, especially in sectors like cement and coal, prevalent along the route. Furthermore, it will facilitate access for domestic and international tourists via Guwahati, Shillong, and Silchar airports, linking several scenic destinations.

This vital infrastructure project will enhance inter-city connectivity among Guwahati, Shillong, and Silchar, easing congestion on NH-06 and aligning with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. It will connect major transport routes, including NH-27, NH-106, NH-206, and NH-37, ensuring seamless travel.

Once operational, the Shillong-Silchar Corridor will spur regional economic development, enhancing links among Guwahati, Shillong, Silchar, Imphal, Aizawl, and Agartala. This initiative is in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, advancing infrastructure while generating employment and promoting socio-economic progress in Meghalaya, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura. The project is set to create approximately 74 lakh direct and 93 lakh indirect man-days of employment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar