Guwahati set for major rail capacity, connectivity boost

Guwahati, October 3 (MExN): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is undertaking a series of major infrastructure and capacity enhancement projects in Guwahati and adjoining areas to meet the growing demand for rail services, improve operational efficiency and strengthen connectivity across the Northeast.

A key project is the Kamakhya-Guwahati 3rd Line Project, covering 5.74 km at a sanctioned cost of Rs 467 crore. The additional line is aimed at enhancing line capacity, easing congestion and facilitating smoother train operations. The project, which will benefit passengers and residents of Kamrup Metro district, is targeted for completion by 2028.

Another major initiative is the Agthori-Kamakhya Double Line Project along with the 2nd Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge, sanctioned at a cost of Rs 1,474 crore. Covering 7.20 km, the project includes a 1.3-km-long second Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge with a double-line railway track and a three-lane road.

The new infrastructure is expected to augment rail and road capacity across the Brahmaputra, ease pressure on the existing Saraighat Bridge and strengthen connectivity between Guwahati, North Guwahati and other parts of the Northeast. It will also facilitate additional commuter train services.

To strengthen train terminal and maintenance infrastructure, construction of a Mega Coaching Complex at New Guwahati is progressing at a cost of Rs 227 crore. The complex will comprise three pit lines, four stabling lines and two automatic coach-washing plants.

The facility is expected to enhance coaching capacity, improve maintenance infrastructure and support safer and more efficient train operations.

Redevelopment of Guwahati and Kamakhya railway stations is also progressing, with emphasis on modern passenger amenities and improved accessibility.

Guwahati Railway Station is being transformed into a modern facility with an IT park and is being developed on the green-building concept, incorporating measures such as solar power generation, waste management and water management.

Construction of a second entry to Guwahati Railway Station is also underway. The additional access point is expected to improve passenger convenience and help reduce traffic congestion around the station. The newly inaugurated Panbazar Road Over Bridge is further supporting smoother traffic movement and station remodelling activities.

Redevelopment works at Kamakhya Railway Station are also progressing, with a focus on upgraded facilities and enhanced passenger amenities.

The Kamakhya-Azara Elevated Corridor is another significant project aimed at strengthening rail connectivity while addressing environmental and wildlife considerations.

An elevated viaduct is being constructed along the stretch, including the section passing through Deepor Beel, to facilitate safe and uninterrupted movement of wildlife, including elephants, while ensuring efficient railway connectivity. The remaining 13.25-km Azara-Kamakhya double-line stretch is targeted for completion by July 2028.

NFR is also strengthening freight and logistics infrastructure in the Guwahati region through Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals (GCTs).

The GCT at Baihata, near Guwahati, has been completed, enhancing freight-handling and logistics capabilities in the region. Rail connectivity between Jogighopa station yard and the Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) GCT siding has also been completed.

The connectivity is expected to strengthen Jogighopa's potential as a major logistics hub and facilitate seamless multimodal movement of goods across the Northeast.