Narengi Tinali, Guwahati

Residents of South-East Guwahati are frustrated with the decade-long delay and non-operational status of a water supply project initiated in 2013. A recent government study has identified areas along Guwahati's southern growth corridor, including GS Road, the Guwahati Bypass, and Fatasil Ambari Road, as the most heat-stressed zones due to rapid urban expansion.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed a concession agreement for the development of the 121-km long Guwahati Ring Road. The project, to be executed in Build-Operate-Toll (BOT) mode, involves a total cost of Rs. 5,729 crore, with the gross project cost standing at Rs. 7,000 crore. The Assam Government will contribute Rs. 1,270 crore.

Guwahati's infrastructure development is progressing with the Mayor unveiling a ₹132 crore roadmap for civic amenities, including street lighting and internal road improvements. . However, the ambitious ₹6,000 crore Guwahati Ring Road project faces scrutiny from the Gauhati High Court regarding forest clearance for tree felling within the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary.

The new, Rs 4,000-crore terminal building at Guwahati airport will become operational from February 22, 2026, with domestic and international flights expected to operate from the new terminal by March, and the old terminal to be repurposed as a cargo hub. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has also signed a concession agreement worth Rs 7,000 crore for the development of the 121-km Guwahati Ring Road.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched blended hospitality services, including sleeping pods and a modern lounge, at Guwahati Railway Station. He also flagged off the Sairang-Silchar passenger train. These initiatives aim to improve passenger comfort and boost regional connectivity, facilitating easier movement of goods and people, and strengthening trade links in the Northeast.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlighted the success of the 'Asom Mala' road infrastructure program in upgrading Assam's road network, leading to faster travel, smoother logistics, and stronger inter-district and inter-state connectivity. This initiative aims to upgrade, widen, and modernize key state highways and major district roads, improving connectivity to economic hubs, border areas, and remote regions.