PM Modi performs Bhoomi Pujan of Kaziranga Elevated Corridor, flags off two Amrit Bharat Express trains in Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday performed the Bhoomi Pujan of the Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project, a major infrastructure initiative worth over ₹6,950 crore, in Assam’s Kaliabor. The project aims to improve connectivity in the region while ensuring the protection of Kaziranga National Park’s fragile ecosystem.
Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister described Kaziranga as “more than a National Park – it is the soul of Assam and a priceless jewel of India’s biodiversity,” recognised globally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. He stressed that conservation and development are not opposing forces, asserting that India is demonstrating how both can progress together.
The 86-km-long project involves four-laning of the Kaliabor-Numaligarh section of National Highway-715 and includes a 35-km elevated wildlife corridor passing through Kaziranga National Park. Designed to allow free movement of animals such as rhinos, elephants and tigers beneath the elevated road, the corridor is intended to reduce human-wildlife conflict, enhance road safety and ensure uninterrupted traffic flow. The project also includes 21 km of bypasses and 30 km of highway widening and will pass through Nagaon, Karbi Anglong and Golaghat districts.
Recalling his earlier visit to Kaziranga, PM Modi said the time he spent at the park, including an elephant safari, was among the most special experiences of his life. He noted that Assam always brings him immense joy and praised the state as a land of bravery, culture and talent. He also referred to his recent participation in the Bagurumba Dwhou festival in Guwahati, lauding the performance by over 10,000 Bodo artists as a record-setting cultural achievement.
Highlighting the government’s development push in Assam, the Prime Minister recalled recent inaugurations, including the expanded terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport and the foundation stone laying of the Ammonia Urea Complex at Namrup. He said these initiatives reflect the government’s guiding principle of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (development with heritage).
PM Modi underlined the historical significance of Kaliabor as a gateway to Kaziranga and a strategic hub for Upper Assam. Referring to the legacy of Ahom general Lachit Borphukan, he said the region symbolises Assam’s courage, unity and self-confidence. He expressed satisfaction that Kaliabor is once again emerging as an important centre of connectivity and growth.
Emphasising the link between conservation and livelihoods, the Prime Minister noted that tourism in Kaziranga has steadily increased in recent years, creating new income opportunities through homestays, guide services, transport, handicrafts and small businesses. He also highlighted the success of anti-poaching efforts, stating that while rhino poaching was rampant a decade ago, no incidents were reported in 2025 due to stronger security, modern surveillance and community participation, including the involvement of women forest guards under the ‘Van Durga’ initiative.
The Prime Minister said the North East is no longer on the margins of development, pointing to significant investments in road, rail, air and waterway connectivity. He noted that Assam’s annual rail budget allocation has increased nearly fivefold compared to earlier years, enabling new rail lines, electrification and improved passenger facilities.
During the event, PM Modi flagged off two new Amrit Bharat Express trains – Guwahati (Kamakhya) – Rohtak and Dibrugarh-Lucknow (Gomti Nagar) – and announced a Vande Bharat Sleeper Train connecting Guwahati with Kolkata. He said these services would benefit traders, students and travellers, further integrating the North East with the rest of the country.
On broader national issues, the Prime Minister said recent election results across states reflect public preference for good governance, development and heritage conservation. He reiterated that India is proving to the world that economic growth and environmental protection can move forward together.
Governor of Assam Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and Pabitra Margherita, along with other dignitaries, were present at the ceremony.
The Kaziranga Elevated Corridor Project is expected to significantly reduce travel time, improve safety, decongest towns such as Jakhalabandha and Bokakhat through bypasses, and strengthen connectivity to Upper Assam, including Dibrugarh and Tinsukia, while safeguarding one of India’s most iconic wildlife habitats.
