Question : LINK ROAD BETWEEN BHUTAN AND INDIA



(a) whether the Government has contemplated to construct a new National Highway starting from Lalai in Bhutan to NH-31, Bijni (eastern side to Aie river bridge) via Amteka, Kailamaila, Subhaijhar, Dogorpara and Mongolian bazaar as a measure of opening a new link road between Bhutan and India through tribal and backward areas of Assam;

(b) if so, the steps taken so far in this regard;

(c) if not, the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the Government also proposes to convert the link roads, viz. Gaylegphu-Samtaibari, Shorbhang-Bismuri, Sandrupjunkar-Rangia and Bhairabkhunda-Udalguri into National Highways so as to help facilitate the counter-insurgency measure in the Indo-Bhutan border areas and also to improve bilateral trade and commerce between Bhutan and India;

(e) if so, the steps taken so far in this regard; and

(f) if not, the reasons therefor?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRYOF SHIPPING, ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS (SHRI. K.H. MUNIYAPPA)

(a)&(d) No, Sir.

(b)&(e) Do not arise.

(c)&(f) In February, 2004 the Ministry has declared 7457 kms of State Roads as National Highways. Due to financial and other constraints, at present, emphasis is being given for development of roads already declared as National Highways instead of declaring more roads as National Highways.