Assam, 1 April : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced an ambitious underwater tunnel project beneath the Brahmaputra River, aimed at transforming connectivity in the Northeast.
Addressing a public rally in Assam’s Biswanath district, PM Modi said the project, estimated at Rs 18,500 crore, will connect Gohpur and Numaligarh, significantly reducing travel distance and enhancing regional mobility. He described the initiative as a major step toward boosting infrastructure and employment opportunities in the state.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the tunnel would open up economic prospects for the youth and strengthen connectivity across the region.
During his address, PM Modi highlighted various welfare initiatives, stating that over 22 lakh families in Assam have received permanent housing, with plans to extend benefits to another 15 lakh families. He reiterated the effectiveness of a ‘double-engine government’ in accelerating development.
Focusing on women’s empowerment, PM Modi noted that around three lakh women have become ‘Lakhpati Baideo’, with a target to increase this number to 40 lakh. He also announced the expansion of the Orunodoi scheme.
The Prime Minister further reiterated plans to implement the Uniform Civil Code in Assam and cited the benefits received by nearly 20 lakh farmers under the PM-Kisan scheme.
Addressing flood challenges, Prime Minister Modi said Rs 18,000 crore will be invested to mitigate flooding, including work on the Subansiri River. He also highlighted infrastructure gains, noting that five bridges over the Brahmaputra rose in the past decade and five more are under construction.
PM Modi pointed to improvements in healthcare and education, including the rise in medical colleges from six to 14, with 10 more underway.
Political Remarks and Criticism of Opposition
Taking a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, PM Modi asserted continued public support for the BJP while criticising the Congress for appeasement politics and underutilising Assam’s potential. He reiterated the government’s commitment to development while safeguarding indigenous communities and preserving the state’s heritage.
