Guwahati: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has begun work on a significant Rs 536-crore elevated railway corridor in the ecologically sensitive Deepor Beel area, despite recent protests and concerns regarding tree felling. This ambitious project aims to be completed by March 2028, providing a crucial long-term solution to the alarming frequency of train-elephant collisions in this vital wildlife corridor.
The initiative involves the construction of a 4.7-kilometre elevated railway viaduct, a critical infrastructure upgrade designed to protect the region’s wild elephant population. This stretch has witnessed numerous tragic deaths of elephants due to train accidents over the years, underscoring the project's importance for wildlife conservation efforts.
Railway officials indicate that the comprehensive project extends beyond just the viaduct. It includes the development of retaining walls, embankments, minor bridges, track work, overhead electrification, and essential signalling and telecommunication infrastructure. The contract for this extensive undertaking was awarded to M/s SPSCIPLMGCPL (JV), with the agreement reportedly formalized in January 2026.
Currently, site clearance activities are underway, and preliminary construction, including the development of test piles, has already commenced. Officials have expressed confidence in the timeline, stating that efforts are being made to complete the project by the stipulated March 31, 2028, deadline or potentially even sooner. This development marks a significant step towards balancing essential infrastructure expansion with the imperative of wildlife protection in Assam's unique ecological landscape.
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