Assam PWD to Oversee Reconstruction of Silchar's Capital Point–Rangirkhari Road

Shillong, India Jul 16, 2026 ALN: The Capital Point–Rangirkhari road in Silchar is set to undergo significant changes as it will be transferred from the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to the Assam Public Works Department (PWD). This decision is part of a broader initiative aimed at reconstructing the damaged stretch of road and implementing a permanent restriction on heavy vehicles traversing through the busy corridors of Silchar.

Cabinet Minister Kaushik Rai made this announcement following a comprehensive review meeting that focused on the current condition of roads in Silchar. The meeting was held at the Cachar District Commissioner's office and aimed to address both immediate repair needs and long-term strategies to alleviate traffic congestion on the city's internal roads. The decision to involve the Assam PWD reflects a proactive approach to managing the infrastructure challenges faced by the region.

"The process of de-notifying the Capital Point–Rangirkhari stretch from NHIDCL and transferring it to Assam PWD will begin immediately. We do not want to wait for the proposed flyover project before addressing the present condition of the road," Rai stated to the media. This indicates a sense of urgency among local authorities to tackle the pressing issues related to road safety and traffic flow.

The NHIDCL had previously undertaken repair work on the 2.3-km stretch of the Capital Point–Rangirkhari road, investing approximately Rs 2.3 crore in the project last year. However, the condition of the road has significantly deteriorated, particularly in central Silchar, with the onset of the monsoon season towards the end of March exacerbating existing issues. In response to these challenges, a review conducted in June led to NHIDCL being instructed to carry out emergency repairs to mitigate further damage.

During this emergency phase, the NHIDCL initiated temporary restoration efforts by laying paver blocks on the road. Minister Rai noted that this measure is merely a stopgap solution to provide immediate relief during the rainy season. He emphasized that a permanent resolution would involve comprehensive reconstruction by the Assam PWD, which is better equipped for such extensive work.

"The paver-block work is only a temporary measure to provide immediate relief during the monsoon. A permanent solution will come through comprehensive reconstruction by Assam PWD," Rai explained. The minister also highlighted that full-scale bituminous resurfacing of the road is not feasible during the rainy season, which poses challenges to the construction process.

Looking ahead, the Assam PWD is expected to prepare a new estimate and initiate complete reconstruction of the road within the next two months, contingent on favorable weather conditions. This timeline reflects the government's commitment to addressing the infrastructure needs of the region while being mindful of seasonal challenges.

In a significant move to protect the infrastructure from further deterioration, the government has decided to permanently restrict heavy vehicles from using the Capital Point–Rangirkhari road. This decision will be enforced through a notification issued by the local police, directing trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles to utilize NH-37 and the Silchar bypass instead. Minister Rai emphasized that this will not be a temporary diversion but a long-term strategy to safeguard the road and minimize damage caused by heavy traffic.

The NH-37 stretch, which runs through Tarapur towards Rangpur, will remain under the jurisdiction of NHIDCL. The agency has also been tasked with conducting necessary repairs, including the installation of paver blocks, to maintain the integrity of this route.

In an effort to facilitate uninterrupted repair work, Rai mentioned that NHIDCL has been instructed to monitor weather forecasts closely and identify two suitable nights for temporarily closing the road to heavy vehicles. This strategic planning aims to minimize disruptions while allowing for essential repairs to take place.

The review meeting also touched upon the proposed Silchar bypass flyover project, which is designed to alleviate traffic congestion in the city. This nearly 3-km corridor comprises approximately 2 km managed by NHIDCL and 1 km under the Assam PWD. However, progress on the project has been hindered due to delays in the delivery of machinery and construction materials, which were reportedly held up for nearly 20 days due to damage to a bridge at Gumrah along the transportation route. Despite these setbacks, officials anticipate that the necessary materials will arrive at the project site within the next few days, allowing work on the flyover to commence shortly thereafter.

Minister Rai underscored the importance of the flyover project in reducing congestion and diverting through traffic away from the city, indicating a long-term vision for urban traffic management in Silchar. Once the flyover is completed, it is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and enhance the overall commuting experience for residents.

The discussion also included plans for the Rangirkhari–Sonabarighat stretch, which is slated for transfer to Assam PWD once NHIDCL completes the necessary drainage work. This transfer will ensure that the entire road from Capital Point to Sonabarighat falls under the purview of the State PWD, while the Silchar bypass will continue to be designated as a national highway corridor.

Additionally, the meeting reviewed the condition of the 1.9-km road connecting Birbal Bazar in Meherpur to the Silchar Medical College and Hospital. Approximately Rs 26 crore has been earmarked for land acquisition related to this project, with around Rs 12 crore already disbursed. The administration aims to finalize the remaining land acquisition and utility-shifting formalities and hand over the entire stretch to the contractor by August 20. This timeline reflects the urgency of addressing the transportation needs of residents, particularly in accessing critical health services.

In a bid to alleviate congestion in the area, police personnel will be deployed round the clock in shifts at key locations between Birbal Bazar and the Silchar Medical College bridge to regulate traffic effectively. This proactive measure aims to enhance safety and improve the flow of vehicles, particularly during peak hours.

Recognizing the significant inconvenience faced by residents due to the deteriorating road conditions, Minister Rai acknowledged the public's concerns and the protests that have arisen in response. "The hardship faced by the people is genuine, and we fully recognize it. Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has been personally monitoring the issue. Our objective is to provide immediate relief while also implementing a permanent and technically sustainable solution," he stated.

To ensure accountability and progress, Rai mentioned that specific responsibilities and timelines have been assigned to the relevant departments. He expressed confidence that the overall road conditions in Silchar would improve in the near future, reflecting the government's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and addressing the pressing needs of the community.