Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Assam on Saturday for a two-day visit packed with major announcements and developmental initiatives. Before setting foot in the state, he is expected to gift Assam and West Bengal a series of significant infrastructure upgrades that promise to boost regional connectivity and railway modernization.
The highlight of Saturday’s agenda will be the formal inauguration of the ultra-modern Vande Bharat Sleeper Express from Malda station in Kolkata. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will join the ceremony virtually from Guwahati, participating from the Kamakhya railway station. After the event, the Chief Minister will attend additional engagements in the city later in the evening.
Prime Minister Modi is set to land at Guwahati airport at 5.20 PM on Saturday. From there, he will proceed directly to the Sarusajai Stadium, where a grand reception awaits him. A massive cultural programme has been arranged, featuring nearly 10,000 artists performing the iconic Baghurumba dance. The event, beginning at 6 PM, is expected to showcase Assam’s vibrant cultural spirit.
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister will spend the night at the state guest house in Koinadhora, preparing for the next day’s engagements.
On Sunday, Modi will travel to Kaliabor to address a major public rally at 11 AM. During the event, he will lay the foundation stone for the 34.5-kilometre elevated corridor between Kaliabor and Bokakhat. The project, estimated to cost Rs 6,957 crore, will be built as a four-lane structure and is expected to significantly enhance regional transportation efficiency.
In addition to the Vande Bharat Sleeper service between Guwahati and Kolkata, the Prime Minister will also flag off two other key railway routes: Dibrugarh–Lucknow and Guwahati–New Delhi. These services will expand travel options for long-distance passengers and reduce travel time across states.
The new Vande Bharat Sleeper Express promises a luxurious travel experience. With a capacity of 823 passengers, the train includes 16 coaches: 11 AC 3-tier, 4 AC 2-tier, and one First Class AC coach. Designed to prioritize passenger comfort, the coaches feature modern amenities, advanced safety systems, and high-quality interiors.
The fare structure is set at Rs 2,300, Rs 3,000, and Rs 3,600 depending on the class of travel. A unique culinary experience also awaits passengers—Assamese cuisine will be served on journeys starting from Guwahati, while Bengali dishes will be offered on departures from Kolkata.
Although the train is capable of reaching speeds of up to 180 kmph, its operational speed has been capped at 130 kmph to ensure maximum safety.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit, marked by major railway upgrades and infrastructure milestones, is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping connectivity across the northeastern and eastern regions of India.
