Guwahati railway network set for major upgrade: New lines, 2nd Saraighat Bridge, stations and more

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is undertaking a major overhaul of the Guwahati railway network to enhance train movement, boost capacity and enhance passenger convenience. Guwahati, the headquarters of NFR, is a key railway hub in the Northeast region, with over 50,000 passengers using the station daily, reaching up to 65,000 during peak seasons.

To meet growing demand, the NFR is developing several infrastructure projects. These include a third railway line between Kamakhya and Guwahati, spanning 5.74 km at a cost of Rs 467 crore. The new line aims to increase capacity, alleviate congestion and improve train operations on the busy section, with completion targeted for 2028.

Another significant project is the Agthori-Kamakhya double line project, which includes the second Saraighat Rail-cum-Road Bridge. The Rs 1,474 crore project covers 7.20 km and will provide additional rail and road capacity across the Brahmaputra, easing pressure on the existing Saraighat Bridge and enhancing connectivity between Guwahati, North Guwahati and other Northeast regions.

In a separate development, a Mega Coaching Complex is being constructed at New Guwahati at a cost of Rs 227 crore. The complex will feature three pit lines, four stabling lines and two automatic coach-washing plants, enabling more trains to be handled and maintained, thereby boosting efficiency and safety.

Additionally, the passenger facilities of Guwahati and Kamakhya stations are being upgraded under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). Guwahati station will feature an IT park with green-building elements, solar power generation, waste and water management systems. A second entry to the Guwahati station is also under construction to reduce station traffic congestion.

The Kamakhya-Azara Elevated Corridor project is another critical initiative, constructing an elevated viaduct along the stretch to ensure safe and uninterrupted wildlife movement, particularly for elephants, while maintaining efficient railway connectivity. The 13.25-km-long Azara-Kamakhya double-line section is expected to be completed by July 2028.

Lastly, the Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal (GCT) at Baihata, near Guwahati, has been completed, enhancing freight handling and logistics capacity. Moreover, the rail connection between Jogighopa station yard and the Multi Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) GCT siding is now operational, strengthening Jogighopa's role as a major logistics hub in the Northeast.