STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: In the wake of the recently-concluded celebration of the 400th birth anniversary of legendary Ahom general Lachit Barphukan, the state government has decided to develop the site at Alaboi near Dadara in the Kamrup district where a fierce battle fought between the Ahom Kingdom and the Mughal empire on August 5, 1669.
The project is estimated to cost Rs 118.36 crore.
The Battle of Alaboi was fought in mountainous terrain between the armies led by Lachit Barphukan and Mughal general Ram Singh. Although numerous Assamese soldiers - over 10,000 of them - laid down their lives in the battle, the Mughal losses were also substantial and Ram Singh was forced to open negotiations for peace after the battle.
The state government has taken the decision to develop a memorial for the Battle of Alaboi because this battle is less famous than the Battle of Sariaghat. The government seeks to pay renewed homage to the memory of Bir Lachit Barphukan through this memorial.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has already invited tenders for construction of the 'Alaboi Ron Smriti Khetra'. The successful bidder will have to complete the work within 30 months of award of work order.
The memorial will comprise a maidam and a 30-metre-tall image of a hengdang (Ahom sword). A museum will also be constructed at the foothills of the mountain at the battle site. Further, there will a light-and-sound show at the memorial.
The PWD expects work on the memorial to commence early next year.
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