Assam: Dighalipukhuri under threat, Guwahati citizens demand rethink of flyover project

Guwahati: A group of concerned citizens in Guwahati has issued a strong appeal to the Assam government, urging them to reconsider the construction of a flyover connecting Noonmati and Dighalipukhuri.

They argue that the project, while aimed at easing traffic congestion, poses a significant threat to the city's green spaces, historical landmarks, and the quality of life for its residents.

Dighalipukhuri, a serene lake and green space in the heart of Guwahati, is considered a historical and cultural landmark.

It is home to the Assam State Museum, Rabindra Bhawan, and is a popular spot for residents to relax and exercise. The citizens fear that the flyover construction will disrupt the peaceful ambiance of the area, lead to the loss of biodiversity, and negatively impact the daily lives of thousands.

The petitioners expressed concerns about the potential felling of century-old trees, which would not only reduce the city's green cover but also disrupt the ecological balance.

They highlighted that Dighalipukhuri is one of the few remaining green lungs of Guwahati, providing essential respite from the urban environment.

"Dighalipukhuri is a popular area for the city’s denizens to relax, to go for morning walks and jogs, with its many trees and waterbody presenting a peaceful ambiance. It is a favorite spot of senior citizens. The area constitutes one of Guwahati’s few remaining green lungs. Such spaces are integral to the wellbeing and health of a city’s residents," they said.

Instead of focusing solely on flyovers, the citizens advocated for the improvement of public transportation systems as a more sustainable and effective solution to traffic congestion.

They pointed to the negative impacts of similar construction projects in other parts of the city, such as Silpukhuri and Chandmari, which have adversely affected the health and well-being of residents.

The appeal comes at a time when the city is grappling with rapid urbanization and development pressures.

The citizens hope that their voices will be heard and that the government will prioritize the preservation of Dighalipukhuri and other green spaces for the benefit of future generations.