Guwahatians Protest Against Tree Cutting in Dighalipukhuri

• Image Credit: Google

• Oct 29, 2024 | Sampreeti Bhuyan

Authorities on 28th October marked 25 trees with yellow cross signs along the Tayabullah Road, near Handique Girls' College.

Digital Desk: Dighalipukhri a heritage site of Guwahati, is a man-made pond created during the 16th or 17th century. The Dighalipukhuri despite its historical importance is also home to various flora and fauna species. In a recent incident, the Government of Assam has decided to construct a flyover from Noonmati to Dighalipukhuri and as a result of this year's old trees are to be sacrificed.

The authorities on 28th October marked 25 trees with yellow cross signs along the Tayabullah Road, near Handique Girls' College. The trees were home to many bird species and some of them were aged over 200 years old. This will affect the biodiversity and heritage of Dighalipukhuri, as well as the environment of the entire Guwahati city. Besides being a home for many birds, these trees have been providing relief to people from the scorching heat. 

Guwahati's nature lovers are outraged by the destruction of the heritage and beauty of the Dighalipukhuri. On the 29th of October 2024, the citizens of Guwahati held a protest against the construction of the flyover by cutting down trees and vegetation. 

Writer Hiren Gohain expressing disbelieve and encouraging the protesters says “I would like to congratulate the citizens for coming out to protect Dighalipukhuri and its historic environment from the looting of politicians and corrupt bureaucrats. The BJP only knows the value of money. For them, nature, human life, and culture do not matter if they cannot generate wealth. Memoranda and petitions are but useless papers to them. They also ignore protests. Non-violent protest is the only way to control their attacks. Show them that the Assamese people still have strength.