Staff reporter
Guwahati: Amid widespread public concern over the trimming of trees along the stretch from Rabindra Bhawan in Ambari to the banks of Dighalipukhuri, the Public Works Department (PWD) has clarified that the activity is part of a tree translocation initiative, not a deforestation drive. The late-night operation carried out on Monday had triggered sharp criticism from locals and student groups, who feared indiscriminate felling of mature trees in the heart of the city.
A senior PWD official stated that the trees are being carefully prepared for relocation to near-by areas. “These trees are being translocated. Last night’s operation involved trimming to enable root ball treatment, which is essential before shifting the trees. None of them will be cut down,” the official said.
According to the department, there are 109 trees between the AGP office and Rabindra Bhawan. Of these, 77 have been identified for translocation. Additionally, in front of the Assam State Museum, 23 trees were trimmed, but not cut, as part of preparatory work.
However, the explanation has not fully convinced citizens and environmental activists. The operation was carried out under the cover of darkness, raising eyebrows and leading to questions about the transparency of the process. Locals and members of the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) who rushed to the spot voiced strong objections to what they perceived as a covert activity that lacked public consultation.
Eyewitnesses reported that workers fled the site upon the arrival of media personnel, abandoning their tools and leaving the job incomplete. This sudden exit only deepened public suspicions about the true intent behind the operation.
Environmental groups have since demanded a comprehensive explanation from the authorities, including a publicly accessible translocation plan, independent environmental impact assessments, and assurances that the city’s already shrinking green cover will not be further compromised.
“This is not just about a few trees,” said a spokesperson from SFI. “It’s about our right to a livable, breathable Guwahati. If development is the goal, it cannot come at the cost of destroying our natural heritage in secrecy.”
While the PWD has offered its assurance, the lack of prior notice, night-time execution, and absence of civic engagement continue to fuel concerns. Environmental activists have called for an immediate halt to the operation until full transparency is ensured.
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