Evaluate the status and impact of transportation and connectivity projects like Bharatmala, Sagarmala and Act East Policy on Assam's economy.

Assam is strategically transitioning from a “land-locked” periphery to a “land-linked” gateway for India’s Act East Policy. The synergy between Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and regional connectivity projects is the primary driver of this economic transformation.

1. Status and Impact of Key Projects:

• Bharatmala Pariyojana: Focuses on economic corridors and arterial roads. The construction of the Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge (India’s longest river bridge) and the Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) at Jogighopa are milestones.

  • Impact: These reduce logistics costs for Assam’s tea, petroleum, and cement industries, integrating the state with national markets.

• Sagarmala (Inland Waterways): Focuses on the “Blue Economy” via National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra) and NW-16 (Barak).

  • Impact: Through the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route, Assam has gained cost-effective access to Chittagong and Mongla ports, facilitating bulk cargo trade and river tourism (e.g., MV Ganga Vilas).

• Act East Policy: This provides the strategic framework for cross-border trade. Projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and rail links to Bangladesh position Assam as the logistical hub for ASEAN trade.

2. Economic Evaluation:

• Positive Impact: These projects create a “multiplier effect,” stimulating MSMEs, enhancing the “Ease of Doing Business,” and attracting private investment in food processing.
• Challenges: Progress is often slowed by difficult Himalayan topography, annual floods/erosion, and land acquisition delays.

Conclusion: Integrated connectivity is successfully converting Assam into the “New Engine of Growth” for India, fulfilling the vision of an Atmanirbhar Northeast.