Suman Biswas, a businessman from Guwahati, is a seasoned traveler on the Guwahati-Silchar route. While he enjoys the convenience of his own vehicle for these frequent trips, a significant hurdle in his journeys has always been crossing the difficult terrain of Dima Hasao.
“Being a regular traveler, I often feel frustrated over how a mere 10-kilometre stretch of road in this hilly district sometimes takes over an hour-and-a-half due to its deplorable condition. The constant bumps and uneven surfaces make the journey very unpleasant, especially for young children and elderly members,” said Suman, while talking to Asom Barta.
Despite these persistent challenges, the recent decision of Assam Cabinet to sanction ₹3,875 cr for developing the road infrastructure projects has brought a wave of optimism to many like Suman, “This much-needed developments will not only ensure ease of travelling but also bring immense benefits to the residents of the picturesque Dima Hasao and the entire Barak Valley,” he added.
On June 4, the Assam Cabinet granted a nod to an infrastructure project worth ₹3,875 cr to enhance road connectivity in Dima Hasao district, marking the highest-ever State investment in the region. Under the Assam Disaster Resilient Hill Area Roads Development Project (ADRHARDP), 348 km of roads will be constructed across key routes.
“This is the highest amount the Assam Government has ever allocated to the hill district. The tendering process is complete, and work will start after monsoon,” said Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma during the post-Cabinet press briefing at Lok Sewa Bhawan.
He added that the Centre will bear 80% of the cost, with the remaining 20% to be funded by the State, “The Centre, through assistance from the World Bank, will provide 80% of the funding. The rest will be contributed by the State Government,” he added.
Work will, however, commence once flood conditions improve.
Cabinet Minister Nandita Gorlosa, speaking to this newsletter noted that the decision was influenced by the devastating 2022 floods, “Following the disaster, our Chief Minister visited the affected areas. He immediately directed officials of various departments to conduct a thorough study of the terrain. His proactive approach laid the groundwork for a sustainable, long-term solution.”
Gorlosa stated that only because of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s intervention the project has been taken up by World Bank.
“Connectivity has always been a major obstacle in this district. This project will be a game changer in improving accessibility and communication for the entire region,” she emphasized.
Beyond the commercial advantages, Suman highlights a crucial humanitarian aspect of this infrastructure upgrade.
“Better roads will drastically reduce travel time, enabling critical access to medical facilities. Patients from Dima Hasao and Barak Valley, who currently face grueling journeys, will soon be able to reach the State capital or other major medical centers within a mere five to six hours,” he added.
Suman looks forward to a future where his business trips are less about off roading and more about seamless travel.
