Guwahati: Assam Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi has urged the state government to engage in wider consultations with stakeholders before proceeding with various infrastructure projects across the state.
His appeal was made on social media platform X, following a letter he sent to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in September, expressing concerns over the impact of such projects on heritage, biodiversity, and green cover in Guwahati.
Highlighting the proposed 5.44 km-long flyover project from Noonmati to Dighalipukhuri, Gogoi emphasized its potential adverse social and environmental impact.
He echoed concerns raised by citizens, environmentalists, and civil society groups about the project’s effects on the city’s heritage and ecosystem, advocating for a more sustainable approach to urban development.
In his letter, Gogoi underscored the need for the government to address several key issues:
1. Digholi Pukhuri-Noonmati FCI Flyover Construction:
• Concerns have been raised regarding large-scale tree felling and the subsequent effects on air quality, flood risk, and the city’s green cover.
• Gogoi stressed the importance of an environmental impact assessment to evaluate how unplanned construction could affect air pollution, especially its implications for the health of children and the elderly.
• He advocated for sustainable development practices to ensure that infrastructure projects do not compromise natural resources and environmental balance.
2. Jorhat-Majuli Connecting Bridge Work:
• Gogoi pointed out mismanagement issues, following a halt in construction due to a conflict between two contractors. He noted that local contractors had not been paid, causing delays and growing discontent among stakeholders.
• The MP called on the government to clarify the status of the project and outline the measures being taken to resolve ongoing issues.
3. Proposed Elevated Flyover Construction on AT Road, Jorhat (Baruah Chariali to Bhogdol Bridge):
• Gogoi expressed concerns over the displacement of hundreds of shopkeepers in the traditional wholesale and retail market area where the flyover is planned.
• He emphasized that the presence of banks, government offices, private establishments, and places of worship beneath the flyover could lead to severe traffic congestion and chaos.
Gogoi concluded his letter by urging the government to balance development with environmental sustainability and the well-being of citizens, calling for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach in decision-making regarding future projects.
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