Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma praised the plan for an underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor, calling it a transformative initiative to enhance connectivity between the Northeast and the rest of India. The project aims to ensure smooth transportation of passengers and goods, reducing dependence on the vulnerable Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck.”
CM Sarma expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for envisioning this strategic project, emphasizing its significance in strengthening national integration and regional development. Highlighting the strategic importance of the Siliguri Corridor, Sarma emphasized the need for diversified connectivity options to mitigate risks during emergencies and enhance economic activities in the region.
The proposed underground railway tunnel is expected to provide a secure, all-weather route through the Siliguri Corridor, addressing concerns of vulnerability and improving trade, tourism, and industrial growth in the Northeast. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision of enhancing connectivity to the Northeast, positioning the region as a key gateway to Southeast Asia and integrating it further into India’s economic landscape.
Officials anticipate that the tunnel project will not only enhance transportation efficiency but also unlock new economic opportunities in the region. By investing in advanced infrastructure like tunnels and improved road networks, the government aims to address longstanding infrastructural challenges associated with the Chicken’s Neck corridor, fostering growth and development in the Northeast.
