Northeast’s New Lifeline: Inside the Siliguri Corridor Upgrade

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has welcomed the proposed underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor, describing it as a “game-changing initiative” that will significantly strengthen connectivity between the Northeast and the rest of India while ensuring uninterrupted movement of passengers and goods.

In a post on X, Sarma said the project would reinforce India’s strategic and economic links with the Northeast, a region that has long depended on the narrow Siliguri Corridor—commonly known as the “Chicken’s Neck”—for surface connectivity. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that the proposal reflects the Centre’s commitment to national integration and balanced regional development.

“The proposed underground railway tunnel through the Siliguri Corridor will further cement connectivity to the Northeast region and provide an uninterrupted link for the movement of passengers and goods. Gratitude to Adarniya @narendramodi ji for envisaging this game-changing idea,” the Chief Minister posted.

Sarma has consistently highlighted the strategic sensitivity of the Siliguri Corridor, describing it as both a critical logistical lifeline and a vulnerable national security zone. He has emphasised the need for multiple and resilient connectivity options, pointing out that reliance on a single surface route leaves the region exposed to disruptions caused by natural disasters, accidents, or other emergencies.

Officials said the underground tunnel would offer a secure, all-weather alternative, substantially reducing these risks. The project is also expected to catalyse trade, tourism, and industrial growth across the Northeast by enabling faster and more reliable movement of goods and raw materials.

Political observers note that the proposal aligns with the Centre’s broader Act East and Viksit Bharat initiatives, positioning the Northeast as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia. Alongside ongoing investments in highways, railways, bridges, and inland waterways, the tunnel is seen as a crucial step toward deeper economic integration of the region.

The Assam government believes that enhanced connectivity through the tunnel will unlock new growth opportunities while addressing long-standing infrastructural and strategic challenges associated with the Siliguri, or “Chicken’s Neck,” corridor.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.