Guwahati: The Save Dighalipukhuri Forum, which has been leading the opposition to a proposed flyover project in the area, has extended its appreciation to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his commitment to preserving the region’s greenery.
In a public statement, the Forum welcomed the CM’s assurance that the project would not involve cutting down trees around Dighalipukhuri, an iconic heritage site in Guwahati.
The Forum, which has voiced strong concerns about the potential environmental impact of the project, emphasized that their opposition stems not from a rejection of development, but from a desire to protect Dighalipukhuri’s cultural and ecological heritage. “We stand ready to support development that respects our heritage,” the Forum stated in an official email sent on October 30. They further expressed their willingness to cooperate with the authorities, provided that the development is sensitive to the area’s unique characteristics.
While acknowledging the Chief Minister’s public assurance, the Forum has continued to call for a halt to the ongoing construction, urging the government to explore alternative approaches to the flyover plan. They have requested a complete pause on the project until these alternatives are thoroughly reviewed, with an emphasis on involving the public in the decision-making process. The Forum also raised concerns that construction work continues despite the Public Works Department (PWD) being tasked with evaluating other solutions over the coming week.
In the wake of growing support from environmentalists, youth groups, and cultural advocates, the Save Dighalipukhuri Forum has organized nightly vigils at the site. These vigils, which have been held for the past five days, symbolize the community’s deep connection to the area, which holds historical and intellectual significance for Guwahati. The proposed flyover, the Forum argues, could compromise this legacy.
In addition to the concerns about Dighalipukhuri, the Forum has highlighted the potential environmental risks posed by ongoing construction projects in other parts of Guwahati, particularly in Bharalumukh and Six Mile. The group has raised alarms about the need for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for these projects, urging the government to ensure transparency and public involvement in the planning stages. “Public infrastructure projects must undergo state-level screening to determine whether an EIA is warranted,” the Forum asserted.
Looking ahead, the Save Dighalipukhuri Forum has vowed to continue advocating for public consultation in urban development projects, with a strong focus on preserving both the environment and cultural heritage. Although the night vigils are set to pause temporarily, the Forum remains committed to its cause, bolstered by the growing support from across Guwahati.
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