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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 03/02/2026

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (03-02-2026).

GS Mains Model Question

Paper: General Studies – III (Infrastructure, Internal Security, Economic Development)

Q. The Siliguri Corridor (Chicken’s Neck) is not merely a geographical link but a strategic lifeline for India’s national security and regional integration.

In this context, examine the significance of the proposed underground railway line and high-speed rail extension to Guwahati. Discuss the challenges involved and suggest a way forward.
(15 marks)

Model Answer

Introduction

The Siliguri Corridor, commonly known as the Chicken’s Neck, is a narrow land stretch connecting the North-East, including Assam, with mainland India. As reported in The Assam Tribune (3 February 2026), the proposal for an underground double-track railway line in this corridor and the extension of the Varanasi–Siliguri high-speed rail corridor to Guwahati reflects a strategic rethinking of infrastructure planning, integrating national security, connectivity, and regional development.

Body

A. Significance of Strategic Railway Connectivity

National Security and Strategic Resilience
- The corridor is vulnerable to external threats and natural disruptions.
- Underground rail infrastructure enhances operational security and redundancy.
Defence Logistics and Rapid Mobilisation
- Ensures swift movement of troops, equipment, and essential supplies to the eastern sector.
- Strengthens preparedness along sensitive borders with China and Myanmar.
Economic Integration of Assam and the North-East
- Improved rail connectivity reduces logistics costs and travel time.
- Facilitates trade, tourism, and industrial investment.
Disaster Management Capability
- Underground and diversified rail routes ensure continuity during floods, landslides, or earthquakes.

B. Challenges Involved

High Capital and Construction Costs associated with underground rail systems.
Geological and Seismic Risks in the floodplains and foothills of the eastern Himalayas.
Environmental Sensitivity, including wildlife corridors and fragile ecosystems.
Long Gestation Periods and complex inter-agency coordination.

C. Way Forward

Phased and Prioritised Implementation focusing on the most vulnerable stretches.
Integrated Planning involving Railways, Defence, and Disaster Management agencies.
Environment-Sensitive Engineering with rigorous impact assessments.
Multimodal Connectivity linking rail with roads, inland waterways, and logistics hubs in Assam.

Conclusion

The proposed railway initiatives in the Siliguri Corridor represent a strategic convergence of infrastructure development and national security planning. For Assam and the North-East, these projects can serve as catalysts for economic integration and strategic stability. Effective execution, environmental prudence, and institutional coordination will be critical to transforming this vision into a resilient and enduring national asset.

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