Guwahati, February 6: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed the proposed underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor on Friday. He described it as a game-changing initiative that will enhance connectivity between the Northeast and the rest of the country, ensuring seamless movement of passengers and goods.
In a post on the social media platform X, CM Sarma stated that this ambitious project will strengthen strategic and economic ties with India’s Northeast. The region has long relied on the narrow Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the ‘chicken neck,’ for ground connectivity.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister noted that this visionary proposal reflects the central government’s long-term commitment to national unity and balanced regional development.
In his post, the Chief Minister wrote, “The proposed underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor will further enhance connectivity for the Northeast region and provide a seamless link for the movement of passengers and goods. I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi for envisioning this game-changing idea.”
The Chief Minister has previously highlighted the strategic vulnerability of the Siliguri Corridor, a narrow land strip connecting the Northeast to mainland India. He has described it not only as a logistical lifeline but also as a sensitive national security zone. He emphasized the need for multiple robust connectivity options to ensure the safety of economic activities and movement in the region.
He has pointed out that reliance on a single surface corridor poses risks during natural disasters, accidents, or other disruptions, which could completely isolate the Northeast. He advocates for alternative routes and modern infrastructure solutions, including tunnels and improved rail and road networks, to ensure uninterrupted access at all times.
Officials stated that the proposed underground railway tunnel would significantly mitigate such vulnerabilities by providing a secure, all-weather route through the Siliguri Corridor.
This project is expected to boost trade, tourism, and industrial development in the Northeast by ensuring faster and more reliable Transportation of goods and raw materials.
Political analysts suggest that the central government’s focus on strengthening connectivity in the Northeast aligns with its larger Act East and Developed India vision, positioning the region as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
With significant investments already being made in highways, railways, bridges, and waterways, the proposed tunnel is viewed as another strategic step towards fully integrating the Northeast into India’s economic mainstream.
The Assam government believes that improved connectivity will open new avenues for development and address long-standing infrastructure and strategic concerns associated with the chicken neck corridor.