GUWAHATI: The Assam State Cabinet, in its meeting held yesterday July 12, approved the adoption of the Assam Road Network Master Plan (RNMP), 2023 facilitating efficient transportation and bolstering connectivity. This comprehensive plan addresses the long-term connectivity requirements of the state, encompassing the reclassification of roads, notification of State Highways (SH), and Major District Roads (MDR).
The RNMP has been prepared to cater to the future travel demands of Assam, with a 20-year horizon that dovetails into multimodal transport plans.
It prioritizes the development of a higher-order road network spanning 18,421 kilometres, including 5,120 kilometres of State Highways, 8,638 kilometres of Major District Roads, and 4,673 kilometres of National Highways.
To ensure effective implementation, the identified roads will be categorized into three priority lists: Priority 1, Priority 2, and Priority 3. These lists will guide the short-term (5-year), medium-term (10-year), and long-term (20-year) planning and development of the road network in the state.
The adoption of the Assam Road Network Master Plan is expected to yield significant benefits for the state.
By improving transportation efficiency and reducing road user costs, the plan aims to stimulate economic growth and development.
It is projected to generate employment opportunities equivalent to 13 lakh person-months over the next 20 years through road construction and maintenance activities.