Union Cabinet Sanctions ₹8,970 Crore Four-Lane NH-15 Highway Project in Assam
On 6 August 2026, the Union Cabinet approved ₹8,970.20 crore for a 135.87 km, four-lane access-controlled highway on National Highway-15 (NH-15) in Assam, connecting Baihata Chariali near Guwahati with Tezpur. The project includes five bypasses, 15 major bridges, an elephant underpass, and a 4.9 km emergency landing facility near Tezpur developed in coordination with the Indian Air Force. This highway aims to improve regional connectivity, reduce travel time, and enhance economic and strategic integration in Northeast India.
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Key Facts
- Approval Date: 6 August 2026
- Project Cost: ₹8,970.20 crore
- Highway Length: 135.87 kilometers
- Highway: National Highway-15 (NH-15), Assam
- Route: Baihata Chariali (near Guwahati) to Tezpur
- Major Features: Five bypasses, fifteen major bridges, elephant underpass
- Emergency Landing Facility: 4.9 km near Tezpur, in coordination with Indian Air Force
Background & Context
NH-15 is a vital corridor connecting central Assam to upper Assam and plays a critical role in regional trade, tourism, and mobility. This project is part of the government’s broader initiatives to develop Northeast infrastructure, boosting economic growth and strategic capabilities. The emergency landing facility adds a strategic dimension by allowing aircraft emergency landings on a controlled highway segment.
Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance
This project highlights government infrastructure policies, regional development, and civil-military coordination. Questions may focus on highway infrastructure, Northeast India development strategies, and the importance of emergency landing facilities in road projects.
Points to Remember
- NH-15 connects Baihata Chariali in Kamrup district to Tezpur in Sonitpur district
- Length is approximately 136 km
- Project sanctioned at ₹8,970.20 crore
- Includes wildlife-friendly features like an elephant underpass
- Emergency landing stretch of 4.9 km near Tezpur is a unique strategic facility
- Five major bypasses to ease urban congestion
- Approval date: August 6, 2026
Sources & Further Reading
| Document / Website | Link |
|---|---|
| Cabinet clears Rs 8,970 crore Assam corridor on NH-15 | Open Cabinet clears Rs 8,970 crore Assam corridor on NH-15 ↗www.gktoday.in |
| Assam CM Hails Rs 15,431 crore NH-15 Four-laning Project | Open Assam CM Hails Rs 15,431 crore NH-15 Four-laning Project ↗www.constructionworld.in |