Trains and vehicles to pass under the Brahmaputra River; India's first underwater twin-tube tunnel gets the green light
India is building its first twin-tube underwater tunnel beneath the Brahmaputra River in Assam. This landmark project does more than bridge a river. It opens a seamless path to an Authentic India travel experience in the untouched reaches of the Northeast India. The 15.8-kilometer tunnel features two tubes—one for trains and one for vehicles. This massive project transforms travel across Assam, easier than ever to join Authentic cultural tours in India. We can also explore the vibrant traditions of the Northeast India. This tunnel will connect Gohpur and Numaligarh. It will open new routes for authentic India tour packages focused on lesser-explored regions.
For the first time, India is going to build a twin-tube underwater tunnel. This underwater marvel serves both cars and trains, slashing travel times across the region. It creates a vital link for those seeking Authentic travel experiences in India. The tunnel will turn remote destinations into accessible adventures.
It will enable the rapid movement of troops and ammunition in case of any emergency. A ministerial panel has officially approved the 15.8 km twin-tube tunnel between Gohpur and Numaligarh. This green light marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for the Brahmaputra River, carving a high-speed path deep beneath the water’s surface.
One tube will have a single rail track, supporting future rail-based authentic India tours packages in the region.
Tunnel to be built 32 meters below sea level
According to the design, no vehicles will be able to travel through the tunnel when trains are passing through it. It will have a ballastless track, and the trains will be electrically powered. The entire project, including the tunnel, approach roads, and railway tracks, will cost approximately Rs 18,600 crore. This project is funded by the Ministries of Road Transport, Railways, and Defence. This project builds the vital infrastructure needed for authentic India travel. The powerful partnership ensures that the region is ready for long-term growth and deeper exploration.
The project features two tunnels designed for one-way traffic. It will plunge 32 meters beneath the deepest point of the Brahmaputra River. This ambitious design ensures a smooth, high-speed journey far below the river's powerful currents. The project is expected to be completed in five years after the work is awarded. Once completed, the travel time between Gohpur and Numaligarh will be reduced from the current six and a half hours to just 30 minutes. This project slashes the travel distance from 240 kilometers down to just 34 kilometers. By cutting out hours of travel, it opens up once-remote destinations for India authentic tours and Authentic Indian tours.
Improved connectivity in the Northeast
The tunnel provides a high-speed link to Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and other northeastern states. By bridging the Brahmaputra, this project transforms access to a region famous for India's best authentic tours and breathtaking cultural landscapes.
Officials confirm that the final plans are heading to the Union Cabinet for their ultimate seal of approval. With the Assam Assembly elections fast approaching in March–April 2026, the project is on the fast track to becoming a reality.
Last year, the Finance Ministry green-lit a road tunnel project worth approximately ₹14,900 crore. In a rare show of collaboration, the funding was split 80:20 between the Ministry of Road Transport and the Ministry of Defence. This was a partnership that underscores the tunnel's vital role in national security.
However, following a decision to construct tunnels for both roads and railways wherever feasible, the government has identified three such tunnels for the Northeast's Chicken Neck corridor. These are located across the Brahmaputra River in Assam and on the Maranahalli–Addahole (Shiradi Ghat) stretch in Karnataka.
Officials stated that the inclusion of a railway track within one of the tunnels has increased the project cost, while also laying the foundation for future Experience Authentic India Tours and Discover India with Authentic Travel initiatives in these regions.
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