The Assam government has taken a significant step to expedite the long-delayed Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project by enlisting 11 new contractors. This move comes in response to concerns raised by the state government about the sluggish progress of the project. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has assured Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the timely completion of the project.
Project Overview
The Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project, part of NH-37 (Old)/NH-02 and NH-715 (New), spans a 127-km stretch. The project has faced persistent delays due to land acquisition hurdles, material shortages, and underperforming contractors. To address these issues, the project has been divided into smaller, manageable segments, with work progressing under the supervision of 11 contractors.
Key Developments
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has outlined several key interventions to resolve bottlenecks and expedite the project. These include the construction of nine vehicular underpasses, six pedestrian underpasses, and one flyover. The project requires substantial quantities of materials such as sand, earth, and boulders, with the procurement of 12 lakh cubic meters of earth, 11 lakh cubic meters of sand, and 5 lakh metric tons of boulders.
Government’s Commitment
Gadkari has assured that the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) will proactively address all challenges and issues on national highways in Assam. The NHIDCL has been tasked with ensuring comprehensive maintenance and restoration of all national highways in the state. This commitment is expected to improve road connectivity and facilitate smoother transportation in the region.
Impact on Local Economy
The timely completion of the Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project is anticipated to have a positive impact on the local economy. By enhancing road connectivity, the project will boost trade and commerce, create job opportunities for local residents, and promote tourism in the region. The improved infrastructure is also expected to attract investment and stimulate economic growth in Assam.
Community Response
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed gratitude to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for his decisive measures to fast-track the project. Sarma has commended the proactive approach taken by the Union Ministry and expressed optimism about the project’s timely completion. The local community has welcomed the development, hoping that it will lead to better transportation facilities and improved quality of life.
Conclusion
The onboarding of 11 contractors to fast-track the Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project marks a significant milestone in the state’s infrastructure development. With the government’s commitment to resolving bottlenecks and ensuring timely completion, the project is poised to enhance road connectivity, boost the local economy, and improve the overall quality of life for residents in Assam. This development is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the state and central governments in addressing critical infrastructure needs.
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FAQs about the Jorhat-Dibrugarh Highway Project
What is the Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project?
The Jorhat-Dibrugarh highway project is a 127-km stretch of road under NH-37 (Old)/NH-02 and NH-715 (New), aimed at improving road connectivity between Jorhat and Dibrugarh in Assam.
Why has the project faced delays?
The project has faced delays due to land acquisition hurdles, material shortages, and the underperformance of certain contractors.
How many contractors have been enlisted to speed up the project?
Eleven contractors have been enlisted to accelerate the completion of the project.
What are the key developments in the project?
The project includes the construction of nine vehicular underpasses, six pedestrian underpasses, and one flyover.
What is the expected impact on the local economy?
The project is expected to boost trade and commerce, create job opportunities, and promote tourism in the region, thereby stimulating economic growth in Assam.
