The existing Saraighat Bridge was completed in September 1962 and has connected the northern and southern banks of the Brahmaputra for more than six decades. The doubling project was sanctioned by the Ministry of Railways in 2024, with Larsen & Toubro entrusted with its execution. Planning and tendering have been completed, while geotechnical investigations, major engineering design and construction drawing activities have progressed.
A central component is the 1.3-km Double-Decker Rail-cum-Road Bridge over the river. Its lower deck will carry two railway lines, while the upper deck will provide a 3-lane road carriageway and a footpath. The existing bridge has a single railway line and a 2-lane road. The new structure will feature a 125-m span welded Open Web Girder superstructure on well foundations, connected to approach viaducts measuring about 600 m on the Agthori side and 200 m on the Kamakhya side.
The viaducts will use pile foundations and composite girder superstructures for the rail and road components. Four road spans on each side will form part of the integrated double-decker arrangement, which will connect with National Highways Authority of India approaches towards Jalukbari and the Agthori-side road network.
The project is being developed with digital engineering, bridge instrumentation, quality controls and safety systems suited to the Brahmaputra’s conditions. Preparatory work is substantially advanced, and mobilisation is under way, with piling targeted to begin in October 2026. Construction is expected to gather pace during the current financial year across foundations, structures, viaducts and earthwork. Once completed, the bridge will increase rail and road capacity, improve passenger and freight movement, and reinforce Guwahati’s connection with Assam and the wider Northeast.