Assam's NH-15 to Get Major Upgrade with Emergency Landing Facility
In a significant infrastructure announcement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed on Thursday that the Finance Ministry has recommended a proposal to upgrade 136 kilometers of National Highway-15 (NH-15) on Assam's north bank. The project, estimated to cost Rs 15,000 crore, will include the region's second Emergency Landing Facility (ELF), enhancing both civilian connectivity and strategic capabilities.
Project Details and Strategic Importance
The upgrade focuses on the Baihata Chariali–Tezpur stretch of NH-15, which will be four-laned to ensure seamless connectivity from the West Bengal border in Kokrajhar to the Arunachal Pradesh border in Dhemaji. CM Sarma shared this information in a post on 'X', highlighting that the project will feature 15 major bridges, 19 flyovers, and 43 underpasses. The most notable component is the ELF near Tezpur, which follows the one inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Moran last month.
Emergency Landing Facilities are specifically designed to allow fighter jets and transport aircraft to land on national highways during emergencies, underscoring the dual civilian and strategic value of such infrastructure projects. This addition not only boosts regional development but also strengthens national security preparedness in the northeastern region.
Traffic Ease and Connectivity Enhancements
To address traffic congestion, the project includes several bypasses that will significantly improve travel efficiency. These bypasses are planned at Baihata Chariali (8 km), Sipajhar (10 km), Kharupetia (8 km), Dhekiajuli (5 km), and Mission Chariali–Tezpur (28 km). CM Sarma emphasized that these measures will ensure smoother and faster travel across the north bank, benefiting both local commuters and long-distance transporters.
The upgrade is expected to transform NH-15 into a modern arterial route, facilitating economic growth and regional integration. By linking key border areas, it aims to enhance trade, tourism, and accessibility in Assam and neighboring states.
