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In a landmark initiative, India is set to construct its first twin-tube underwater tunnel, facilitating the dual movement of vehicles and trains. This infrastructure aims to enhance the swift transportation of forces and ammunition during emergencies, as reported by Dipak Dash.
Key Features of the Tunnel
An inter-ministerial panel, led by the expenditure secretary, has approved the construction of a 15.8 km twin-tube tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This project will connect Gohpur and Numaligarh, with one tube specifically designated for a single railway track. Importantly, vehicular movement will be halted while trains operate in this tube, which will feature a ballistic track powered by electricity.
Impact on Travel and Connectivity
The total project encompasses 33.7 km, including the tunnel, approach roads, and railway track, with an estimated cost of approximately ₹18,600 crore. Once operational, travel time between Gohpur and Numaligarh will plummet from six-and-a-half hours to just 30 minutes, effectively reducing the distance from 240 km to a mere 34 km. This improvement will greatly enhance connectivity to Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and other northeastern states.
Funding and Future Prospects
The financial responsibilities for this ambitious project will be shared among the road transport, railways, and defence ministries. Designed as two unidirectional tunnels with two lanes each, these will be constructed 32 meters below the deepest bed level of the Brahmaputra. Officials anticipate that the project will reach completion within five years following the awarding of work.
Upcoming Approvals
Officials have noted that the project is slated to be presented to the Union cabinet for approval, likely before the Assam assembly polls. In a previous initiative, the finance ministry approved a road tunnel with a budget of approximately ₹14,900 crore, which was to be funded at an 80:20 ratio by the road transport and defence ministries. However, a shift in strategy led to a decision to construct road-cum-railway tunnels where feasible, identifying three such tunnels for the North-East chicken neck corridor.
Conclusion
With the inclusion of a railway track in one of the tunnels, the project’s cost has increased, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in the region. This strategic move not only aims to bolster national security but also promises to significantly enhance the overall connectivity of Northeastern India.
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