Prime Minister virtually launched and laid the foundation stone of infrastructure and connectivity projects worth over ₹4,500 crore in Assam, particularly focusing on the Bodoland Territorial Region.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

1. Assam Mala 3.0 – Flagship Road Connectivity Programme

• The Assam Mala initiative (Phase 3) was launched with an investment of over ₹3,200 crore.
• The scheme aims to construct over 900 kilometres of roads.

Objectives

• Strengthen inter-state and intra-state connectivity.
• Link national highways with rural road networks.
• Improve trade, mobility, and regional integration.

2. Road Infrastructure in Bodoland Territorial Region

Six major road projects worth ₹1,100 crore were announced.

Key components include:

• Four flyovers at
  • BK Road–Gossaigaon Chariali
  • Balajan Tiniali
  • Debargaon Junction
  • Titaguri
• Two bridges to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.

These projects aim to transform the BTR into a well-connected economic corridor.

3. Railway Infrastructure Development

A Periodic Overhauling Workshop for railway coaches will be established at Bashbari in Kokrajhar.

• Estimated cost: ₹255 crore
• Expected outcomes:
  • Improve railway maintenance capacity
  • Create local employment opportunities
  • Strengthen rail logistics infrastructure

4. New Train Services

Three new train services were flagged off:

• Kamakhya–Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express – linking Northeast India with southern India.
• Guwahati–New Jalpaiguri Express – strengthening Assam–West Bengal connectivity.
• Narangi–Agartala Express – improving connectivity with Tripura.

These trains enhance regional mobility and economic integration.

Development of Bodoland Territorial Region

The Government highlighted several initiatives for the region:

• Associate official status to the Bodo language.
• ₹1,500 crore special development package for Bodoland.
• Establishment of medical colleges in Kokrajhar and Tamulpur.
• Rehabilitation of nearly 10,000 former militants, supporting peace and social stability.

These measures follow the Bodo Peace Accord 2020, which aims to bring peace, development, and political stability to the region.

Exam Hook

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Assam Mala is a road connectivity initiative aimed at improving rural and highway connectivity in Assam.
2. The Bodoland Territorial Region was strengthened through the Bodo Peace Accord of 2020.
3. The Amrit Bharat Express trains are designed to enhance long-distance rail connectivity.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

One-line Wrap:
The launch of Assam Mala 3.0 and railway projects marks a major step toward transforming connectivity, peace, and economic growth in the Bodoland region and Northeast India.

Source