The ambitious Shillong–Silchar greenfield highway project, spanning 168 km, is on track for completion by the financial year 2029–30. Once operational, the project will significantly boost connectivity in the Northeast by reducing the travel time between Shillong (Meghalaya) and Silchar (Assam) from eight hours to approximately four hours—a 50% reduction.
The proposed four-lane highway, with paved shoulders, will traverse five key districts in Meghalaya—Ri-Bhoi, East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, East Jaintia Hills—and the Cachar district in Assam.
The massive infrastructure effort involves the construction of:
18 major bridges
150 minor bridges
38 viaducts
320 box culverts
57 overpasses and underpasses
The total estimated project cost stands at ₹22,864 crore, with ₹12,087 crore allocated to civil works. The land acquisition process is actively progressing, with the Competent Authority for Land Acquisition (CALA) already appointed under Section 3(a) of the National Highways Act, 1956.
Given the challenging hilly terrain and fragile geology, the National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM), Bangalore, has been consulted to advise on slope protection and stabilization techniques to ensure the safety and sustainability of the highway.
Beyond improving regional travel, the highway will serve as a crucial link to other Northeastern states of Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura via Silchar, positioning it as a vital regional gateway.
Additionally, the project is expected to generate substantial employment during its construction phase, creating an estimated 8.9 million person-days of work across various skilled and unskilled roles.