In a significant boost to Assam’s infrastructure development, the Centre has approved road and bridge projects worth more than Rs 747 crore under the Central Road Infrastructure Fund (CRIF). The decision was announced by Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari through a post on X, highlighting the Centre’s continued focus on strengthening connectivity in the Northeast.
According to Gadkari, Rs 617.98 crore has been sanctioned for 10 road development projects under the CRIF Scheme. In addition, Rs 129.74 crore has been approved for 16 bridge projects under the CRIF Setu Bandhan Scheme. The minister said these initiatives are aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, improving transportation efficiency and reducing travel time across the state.
The approved road projects will focus on upgrading and improving key stretches that serve as crucial links between districts, markets and industrial hubs. Officials said better road connectivity will ease the movement of agricultural produce and industrial goods, lower transportation costs and improve access to important economic centres.
The bridge projects under the Setu Bandhan Scheme are designed to replace old and structurally weak bridges and to construct new ones where needed. These projects are expected to ensure safer and uninterrupted movement, especially in Assam’s flood-prone and riverine areas, where damaged or outdated bridges often disrupt connectivity during the monsoon season.
Emphasising the broader vision behind the approvals, Gadkari noted that strong road and bridge infrastructure is essential for inclusive growth and seamless connectivity, particularly in strategically and economically important regions like the Northeast. He added that improved infrastructure would also help integrate Assam more effectively with national and regional markets.
The Assam government has welcomed the Centre’s decision, stating that the projects will give a major push to local trade, agriculture, small businesses and tourism. Improved connectivity is also expected to enhance access to healthcare, education and other essential services in remote and rural parts of the state.
The latest CRIF approvals are in line with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to ensure coordinated infrastructure development across sectors and states for faster implementation and better outcomes. With the newly sanctioned projects, Assam is expected to witness improved logistics efficiency, reduced travel time and accelerated socio-economic development, further strengthening its role in India’s overall growth narrative.
