The Union Government recently reviewed Central sector infrastructure projects under implementation in the Northeastern region, underlining the strategic importance of timely project completion for connectivity, inclusive growth and regional development.

The review meeting was chaired by the Union Minister of State for Statistics and Programme Implementation. 

He urged all ministries and implementing agencies to adopt a solution-oriented and proactive approach to resolve bottlenecks.

Key highlights of the review

• A total of 221 Central sector infrastructure projects are currently under implementation across the Northeast.
• These projects span 11 Central ministries and departments, with a combined original cost of about ₹2.33 lakh crore.
• The projects aim to strengthen road, rail, power, telecom and energy infrastructure in the region.

Sector-wise issues discussed

• Road Transport (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways)
  • 177 projects covering 3,634 km were reviewed.
  • Land acquisition delays and forest clearances remain key challenges.
• Railways
  • Nine ongoing projects are being implemented by Northeast Frontier Railway.
  • Constraints include difficult terrain, landslides, monsoon-dominated climate and short working seasons.
  • Achievements include the Bhairabi–Sairang rail line in Mizoram and 1,072 route km of electrification.
• Power sector
  • Nine projects were reviewed, facing issues such as contractor non-availability and compensation disputes in reserve forest areas.
  • The Tato-I Hydroelectric Project (186 MW) of North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited faced transmission and road connectivity constraints.
• Telecommunications
  • Two projects worth ₹2,227.45 crore were examined.
  • Emphasis was placed on integrating optical ground wire along power lines with last-mile connectivity.
• Petroleum and Natural Gas
  • Issues related to land acquisition and administrative approvals were flagged, including for the North East Gas Grid Project.

Exam Hook 

Q. With reference to Central sector infrastructure projects in the Northeast, consider the following statements:

1. Over 200 Central sector projects are under implementation in the Northeastern region.
2. Land acquisition and forest clearance are among the major causes of delay.
3. Northeast Frontier Railway is responsible for implementing rail connectivity projects in the region.

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)

Source