Guwahati, April 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday unveiled plans for an ambitious underwater tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River, aimed at transforming connectivity in the Northeast.

Addressing a public rally in Biswanath district, Modi said the ₹18,500-crore project will link Gohpur and Numaligarh, significantly reducing travel distance and boosting regional mobility. He described the initiative as a major step toward strengthening infrastructure and creating employment opportunities in Assam.

Highlighting welfare measures, the Prime Minister noted that over 22 lakh families in the state have received permanent housing, with another 15 lakh families set to benefit. He emphasized the role of a “double-engine government” in accelerating development.

Focusing on women’s empowerment, Modi said around three lakh women have become Lakhpati Baideo, with a target to raise this number to 40 lakh. He also announced the expansion of the Orunodoi scheme.

On agriculture, Modi stated that nearly 20 lakh farmers have benefited under the PM-Kisan scheme. He further pledged ₹18,000 crore to tackle Assam’s flood challenges, including work on the Subansiri River.

The Prime Minister pointed to infrastructure gains, noting that five bridges over the Brahmaputra have been completed in the past decade, with five more under construction. He also highlighted improvements in healthcare and education, citing the rise in medical colleges from six to 14, with 10 more underway.