Union Cabinet Approves ₹22,864 Crore High-Speed Corridor Project Connecting Meghalaya and Assam

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a ₹22,864 crore greenfield high-speed corridor project that will connect Mawlyngkhung in Meghalaya to Panchgram in Assam. This initiative is a key part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, aimed at boosting infrastructure, regional connectivity, and economic growth in the Northeast.

Important Key Points:

Project Overview:
- Length: 166.80 km
  - Meghalaya: 144.80 km
  - Assam: 22 km
- Mode: To be built under the Hybrid Annuity Model
Economic and Strategic Importance:
- Improved Connectivity: Will enhance road access between major cities like Shillong, Guwahati, and Silchar
- Industrial Boost: Will support key industries like cement, coal, and horticulture in Meghalaya
- Decongestion: Will reduce traffic pressure on the existing NH-06 corridor
- Tourism Impact: Facilitates access to popular tourist destinations in Meghalaya
- Regional Integration: Links further to Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, improving interstate connectivity
Alignment with National Goals:
- Supports PM Gati Shakti, aiming for seamless multi-modal connectivity
- Promotes Atmanirbhar Bharat through job creation, logistics improvement, and infrastructure investment.