Save Dighalipukhuri Forum Applauds Assam CM’s Commitment to Protect Trees in Flyover Project

Guwahati: The Save Dighalipukhuri Forum has expressed gratitude to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his recent assurance that the planned flyover construction will not involve cutting down trees around Dighalipukhuri. This promise comes as part of the CM’s commitment to preserving the greenery and environmental balance in the area, a gesture that the Forum has welcomed in an official statement.In a communication sent on October 30, the Forum reiterated its stance on sustainable development, clarifying that their opposition to the flyover project is not against progress but focused on protecting Dighalipukhuri’s environmental and cultural significance. “We are committed to supporting development initiatives that honor and preserve our heritage,” the statement emphasized, reaffirming the Forum’s openness to collaboration, provided the project respects the area’s historical value.Despite the CM’s assurance, the Forum remains concerned about the broader implications of the flyover and other ongoing construction projects. They have called for a comprehensive review of alternative designs before any further work proceeds, urging the government to pause the project until these alternatives are carefully evaluated. The Forum advocates for a more inclusive decision-making process, ensuring that public opinions are integrated into future planning discussions.Additionally, the Forum has raised alarms about the continuing construction activities in the area, despite assurances from the Public Works Department (PWD) that alternative options would be explored in the coming week. Reports suggest that work is still ongoing without clear instructions to halt, which has heightened concerns within the local community.The movement, which has garnered support from environmentalists, youth groups, and cultural activists, has been growing in strength. Over the past five days, night vigils have been held around Dighalipukhuri, symbolizing the community’s deep attachment to the area’s historical and intellectual legacy. Forum members have voiced concerns that the proposed overpass could damage this unique legacy, a view shared by many cultural and environmental advocates across the city.The Save Dighalipukhuri Forum also highlighted the need for thorough environmental assessments for other urban infrastructure projects in Guwahati, including at Bharalumukh and Six Mile. They emphasized the importance of a transparent environmental impact assessment (EIA) process, urging that any such projects undergo a state-level screening to determine if an EIA is required, and if not, to provide a clear explanation to the public.Looking ahead, the Forum has committed to continuing its efforts for public involvement in urban development, particularly in preserving environmental and cultural heritage. While night vigils are set to pause temporarily for organizational reasons, the Forum remains active in its advocacy, buoyed by the strong support from the citizens of Guwahati.