“Wildlife to Move Free, Assam to Move Fast, eco-tourism to get a boost in Kaziranga”: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Cabinet Nod for Rs 6,957 Cr Elevated Corridor
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal hailed the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the widening and improvement of the existing highway to 4 lanes. The Cabinet approved widening of the Kaliabor–Numaligarh section of NH-715, including wildlife-friendly measures on the Kaziranga National Park (KNP) stretch in Assam.
“A historic day for Assam and a giant leap for India’s sustainable development. The monumental 34.45 km elevated corridor will ensure a free, safe and uninterrupted passage for wildlife between Kaziranga and Karbi Anglong Hills. It is a promise to protect our natural heritage while building a brighter future for our people,” said Sarbananda Sonowal.
The Union Minister also highlighted the economic significance of the project: “Along with protecting Kaziranga, this highway will cut down travel time drastically, boost eco-tourism, ease travel for pilgrims and visitors, and open new opportunities for trade and industries. The 21 km of greenfield bypasses will decongest Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat, making the journey smoother and safer. This is a road that will connect emotions, aspirations and prosperity.”
Sonowal further added, “This is not just a highway – it is a realisation of Modi ji’s vision where progress and nature, economy and ecology, go hand-in-hand.”
The existing Kalibor–Numaligarh section of NH-715 (old NH-37) currently has a 2-lane configuration. A major portion of this highway runs through or along the southern boundary of Kaziranga National Park, with a narrow right of way and challenging geometrics. Seasonal flooding drives wildlife to move towards Karbi Anglong Hills by crossing the busy highway, often resulting in accidents and wildlife casualties.
To address these concerns, the project will construct a 34.5 km elevated corridor, upgrade 30.22 km of existing road, and build 21 km of greenfield bypasses. This will decongest the highway, enhance road safety, and provide seamless connectivity to key nodes in Assam.
Connectivity will boost logistics, trade, and mobility
The alignment will integrate with two major National Highways (NH-127, NH-129) and one State Highway (SH-35), while also connecting with three railway stations (Nagaon, Jakhalabandha, Vishwanath Chariali) and three airports (Tezpur, Lilabari, Jorhat). This connectivity will boost logistics, trade, and mobility across Assam.
The upgraded corridor will also improve access to socio-economic hubs, religious places, and tourist destinations, thereby strengthening regional growth. The project is expected to generate 15.42 lakh person-days of direct employment and 19.19 lakh person-days of indirect employment, further contributing to Assam’s economic progress.
Prakash Kumar Pandey