Assam: Dighalipukhuri's future at stake as flyover construction in Guwahati looms

Guwahati: The construction of a 5.44 km long new flyover from Noonmati to Dighalipukhuri in Guwahati has sparked concerns about its potential negative effects on the city's heritage and biodiversity.

According to concerned citizens, the construction of the flyover poses a significant threat to Dighalipukhuri, potentially leading to the loss of its historical significance and the felling of numerous trees standing on the bank of the tank.

Dihgalipukhuri is a place of immense historical and ecological significance, which was, according to legend, created by King Bhagadatta of Pragjyotispura by digging a canal from the Brahmaputra River.

The trees surrounding Dighalipukhuri serve as the green lungs of Guwahati city, contributing to the overall environmental balance.

Furthermore, these trees, many of which are more than 100 years old, are home to various species of resident birds and felling these trees would render these birds homeless and force them away from the city.

Rahul Mahanta, a professor at Cotton University and an environmental researcher, has expressed concern over the construction of the flyover, which could lead to a significant loss of the city's green cover.

"Before taking up such a project, an environmental impact assessment should be conducted. However, no proper study had been conducted while constructing the flyovers in the city."

Assamese actress Rimpi Das has also voiced her concerns about the felling of century-old trees in Guwahati.

Das stated, 'The indiscriminate deforestation in our city under the guise of development is a serious issue. While the construction of flyovers is undoubtedly a step towards progress, it should not come at the cost of our environment. The urgent threat of climate change is only worsened by such actions.”

“To address this environmental crisis, the government must instruct the Guwahati Municipal Corporation to launch a comprehensive tree-planting and transplantation program in the Dighalipukhuri areas. However, mere planting is not enough; proper care and maintenance are equally essential. It's crucial to understand that growth and environmental preservation are not mutually exclusive; they are interconnected,” she added.

“Guwahati, as the gateway to Northeast India, has always been a city surrounded by hills and greenery. Yet, like many iconic cities around the world, its development often seems at odds with preserving its unique character," said Maitrayee Patar, a renowned Assamese poet and musician.

"While progress is essential, we must be mindful of what makes Guwahati special. If we lose the very essence of our city, what will we have left to remember?" she added.

Environmental lawyer Vikram Rajkhowa has also opposed the felling of numerous trees in Dighalipukhuri, the city's sole green oasis.

He said that this act would severely disrupt the city's ecological balance, impacting the diverse biodiversity.

Despite government promises to replant and transplant trees, no concrete action has been taken to mitigate the environmental damage caused by deforestation, Rajkhowa added.

Mayur P Nath, a student activist from Cotton University, has strongly opposed the planned felling of heritage trees along the Dighalipukhuri-Chandmare trail for the flyover construction.

He said that these ancient trees, some over two centuries old, are vital to the area's ecological balance and cultural heritage.

“Their shade provides relief from the scorching heat, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The authorities should reconsider the decision and explore alternative construction plans that preserve these invaluable green spaces,” said Nath.

Earlier, Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi expressed deep concern over the proposed flyover project.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, he highlighted the potential environmental and social impacts of the project.