Ambari-Noonmati Flyover Worth Over Rs 850 Crore Draws Mixed Reactions From Guwahatians

Guwahati: The construction of a 5-km-long flyover connecting Ambari Lamb Road to Noonmati is underway, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 852 crore. However, the project has sparked concerns due to its potential environmental and social impacts.  

Initially, the government planned to remove heritage trees in the area, which led to protests by citizens, artists, organizations, and students. In response to their objection, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared a tweet to reassure the public.  

"I want to assure you that the government is deeply committed to preserving our city's heritage and environment while advancing infrastructure. In constructing the flyover from Dighalipukhuri to Noonmati, we are sincerely working to protect the old trees in the area. I urge all stakeholders to allow the Public Works Department a few days to explore an alternative proposal and assess its feasibility," the Chief Minister's tweet read.   

Moreover, street vendors operating on the 'Khaogali' stretch were evicted due to road construction and increased traffic.  

Business North East (BNE) visited the Dighalipukhuri area, where one of the street vendors expressed their plight, saying, "The Guwahati Municipal Corporation and Assam Government have decided to evict us from this place. Most of us are financially unstable or students trying to make a living. Around 30 to 40 stalls operate here. The GMC authorities informed us about plans to provide a replacement building, and we are praying for that to happen."  

The concerns over the chopping of trees and the displacement of vendors have drawn significant attention from various quarters. AASU Chief Adviser Samujjal Bhattacharya also shared his opinion on the matter. He said, "The felling of heritage trees is unacceptable to both the organization and the local community."  

Opposition leader Debabrata Saikia also slammed the state government for cutting down trees to build flyovers. The situation highlights the challenges of balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation and social equity. While the government is trying to explore alternatives, the affected communities await clarity and sustainable solutions.