HLTF Charts Roadmap to Boost Infrastructure & Connectivity in Northeast India Breakthrough

HLTF Union Minister Jyoti Aditya M. Scandia attended a meeting on logistics and infrastructure connectivity in the Northeast, attended by ministers from Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Sikkim. The meeting aimed to develop a comprehensive Infrastructure Masterplan, improve air connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and enhance cross-border trade. The High-Level Task Force (HLTF) has laid out an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming the infrastructure and connectivity landscape of Northeast India, a region known for its strategic location, cultural diversity, and economic potential. This initiative focuses on road, rail, air, and digital connectivity to integrate the Northeast more effectively with the rest of the country and neighbouring nations.

Strategic Road Development

One of the major priorities of the roadmap is upgrading and expanding road networks to ensure faster movement of goods and people. Projects under the Bharatmala Pariyojana and Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for the North East (SARDP-NE) will see significant investment. These road corridors are expected to link key cities, economic hubs, and border areas, promoting trade and tourism in the region. Improved highways will also reduce travel time, enhancing accessibility to remote villages. The HLTF is working closely with the Ministry of Railways to extend rail lines to all Northeastern capitals. The Jiribam–Imphal, Bairiki–Sarang, and Evoke–Rangpo projects are part of this plan, which aims to boost passenger and freight capacity. (SARDP-NE).

Air Transport Upgradation

To meet the growing demand for passenger travel and cargo movement, the roadmap includes the expansion of regional airports under the UDAN scheme. Airports in Guwahati, Imphal, Agartala, and Dibrugarh will undergo modernisation to handle higher traffic. The plan also proposes new airstrips in strategic border areas, enabling faster connectivity for defence and emergency services. Recognising the importance of digital inclusion, the HLTF emphasises expanding BharatNet to every Gram Panchayat in the region. This move will provide high-speed internet connectivity to rural communities, fostering e-governance, online education, telemedicine, and entrepreneurship. With better digital infrastructure, start-ups and local businesses can access national and international markets more effectively. (India’s Highway Projects)

Cross-Border Trade & Connectivity

Given its proximity to Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar, the Northeast holds immense potential for cross-border trade. The roadmap highlights the development of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), inland waterways, and rail links to neighbouring countries. This will not only enhance trade volumes but also strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties. Improved connectivity will directly benefit the tourism sector. The HLTF aims to develop eco-friendly tourism circuits, linking national parks, heritage sites, and adventure destinations. This will create job opportunities, support local artisans, and preserve indigenous culture. Enhanced rail infrastructure will not only strengthen domestic trade but also create a seamless transit route for international exports via Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Sustainable Development Goals

The roadmap aligns with India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that growth is environmentally friendly and socially inclusive. Special focus will be on green transport solutions, renewable energy use, and disaster-resilient infrastructure in flood-prone areas. With coordinated efforts between the Centre, state governments, and regional stakeholders, the HLTF’s roadmap has the potential to position Northeast India as a major growth engine, strengthening its integration with both the Indian mainland and global markets.