India is preparing for a historic step in its infrastructure journey. The Brahmaputra underwater road tunnel in Assam is set to receive Union Cabinet approval soon. This ambitious project will improve connectivity across the river and strengthen defense logistics in the strategic Northeast region.
The First of Its Kind in India
The proposed underwater tunnel under the Brahmaputra River will connect Gohpur and Numaligarh, linking Assam’s north and south banks. Once cleared, it will become India’s first underwater road tunnel, a milestone in the country’s transport development.
Officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) confirmed that the proposal, prepared with the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the Ministry of Defence, is awaiting the Cabinet’s nod.
The tunnel will span about 15 kilometers, using advanced tunnel boring machines (TBMs). These machines can handle the intense water pressure beneath the Brahmaputra’s riverbed.
Strategic Value of the Brahmaputra Underwater Road Tunnel
This project is more than a civil link — it’s a strategic corridor. The tunnel will allow fast military movement toward Arunachal Pradesh, which borders China. During floods and monsoons, when bridges and ferries often fail, this tunnel will ensure year-round access for troops and supplies.
A BRO engineer told The Times of India that the design “prioritizes both defense mobility and public convenience.” The project will serve as a crucial route for emergency services, heavy transport, and cross-state trade.
Regional Benefits and Connectivity Boost
Beyond defense use, the Brahmaputra underwater road tunnel in Assam promises wide-ranging benefits. It will cut travel time between Guwahati and Itanagar by up to three hours. The route will also boost tourism, goods transport, and daily commuting.
The tunnel will complement existing megaprojects like the Bogibeel Bridge and the Dhola–Sadiya Bridge, further improving the Act East Policy connectivity vision. Together, these projects aim to turn the Northeast into India’s gateway to Southeast Asia.
Environmental and Safety Measures
Because the Brahmaputra is an ecologically sensitive river, strict environmental safeguards are part of the plan. The Central Water Commission (CWC) and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) are conducting impact studies to protect aquatic life.
The design will include ventilation shafts, emergency exits, flood-proof barriers, and energy-efficient lighting systems. Engineers aim to meet global safety standards while minimizing ecological disruption.
Economic Opportunities for Assam
The tunnel project will inject strong economic momentum into Assam. Once approved, it could create nearly 15,000 direct and indirect jobs. Local contractors, construction firms, and logistics providers are likely to benefit.
The estimated cost stands at ₹12,800 crore, funded jointly by MoRTH and the Ministry of Defence. Officials plan to recover part of the investment through toll revenue without burdening commuters.
In addition, the project may attract foreign engineering firms experienced in underwater construction, bringing valuable technology and expertise to India.
Construction Timeline and Next Steps
If the Cabinet approves it this month, the government will invite bids under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model. Construction could begin by mid-2026 and finish within seven years.
The tunnel will feature dual lanes, digital traffic monitoring, and real-time communication systems. Authorities expect it to handle both civilian vehicles and heavy military transport efficiently.
Transforming Northeast India’s Future
The Brahmaputra underwater road tunnel is more than an infrastructure project — it’s a symbol of progress. For decades, poor connectivity limited growth in the Northeast. This tunnel aims to change that by integrating the region more closely with the rest of India.
Once operational, it will strengthen Assam’s economy, improve mobility, and secure India’s eastern border. Residents, investors, and policymakers see it as a defining step toward a modern and resilient Northeast.
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