Rampant pollution in Guwahati
The unchecked rise in air, water, and noise pollution has become a pressing issue for Guwahati’s residents, threatening the city’s ecosystem. Increasing vehicular traffic has severely degraded air quality, with harmful particulate matter posing significant health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Meanwhile, the Brahmaputra River, a vital lifeline for the city, faces grave threats from industrial discharge and plastic waste, endangering aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being. Urbanisation and rampant construction of flyovers have further escalated noise pollution, disrupting the peace of the natural surroundings. The absence of an efficient waste management system worsens the problem, leaving many areas marred by uncollected garbage and increasing the risk of diseases.Addressing this crisis requires urgent collaboration between authorities and citizens. Enforcing stricter pollution controls, expanding green spaces, promoting eco-friendly public transportation, encouraging waste segregation, and raising community awareness can pave the way for meaningful change.Guwahati, with its vibrant cultural heritage and unique ecology, deserves a cleaner, healthier future. The authorities, as well as the people, should act now to ensure that pollution does not overshadow its beauty and legacy for generations to come.
Sankalpajit Saikia
Nowgong College, Nagaon
Safety concerns near GU
The 7 Mile area near Guwahati University’s West Gate has become a hotspot for safety concerns due to speeding vehicles. This stretch, frequented by students, residents, and commuters, is increasingly dangerous as vehicles often exceed speed limits, making it risky for pedestrians and cyclists. Despite its high pedestrian traffic, the road lacks sufficient traffic control measures, such as speed breakers, pedestrian crossings, and clear signage. Local residents and students have raised alarms about the growing number of near-miss accidents and the lack of proper enforcement. “I’ve seen many close calls, especially during rush hours,” said a concerned local. To address the issue, there is an urgent need for better traffic regulation. Installing speed bumps, pedestrian crossings, and more traffic signals could help slow down vehicles. Additionally, consistent traffic patrols and stricter penalties for speeding can discourage reckless driving. Public awareness campaigns are also necessary to highlight the importance of road safety. As Guwahati continues to grow, improving street safety around Guwahati University must be a priority. Only through coordinated efforts can we ensure the safety of pedestrians and commuters in the 7 Mile area.
Tridip Borah
(tridipborah976@gmail.com)
The toll of picnics on nature
Picnics, once a simple and enjoyable outdoor activity, have become an essential part of winter traditions, especially in places like Assam, where people flock to scenic destinations at the end of the year and the beginning of the new year. These gatherings offer an escape from busy lives, allowing people to relax and bond with friends and family while enjoying the natural beauty of riverbanks, hills, and mountains. However, the increasing popularity of picnics in these areas has also brought unintended consequences, harming both the environment and the local community.
One of the primary issues with picnics is the careless disposal of waste, especially in picnic spots amidst nature's beauty. Many people leave behind plastic bottles, glass bottles, and other non-biodegradable materials, which pollute the land and water. Rivers, in particular, are vulnerable to contamination, as discarded waste often ends up in the water, causing damage to aquatic life. This pollution not only harms the environment but also diminishes the natural beauty of these locations, turning them into garbage dumps rather than tranquil spots for relaxation.
Moreover, the environmental damage extends beyond just the waste left behind. The reckless use of alcohol and drugs by some individuals during picnics can lead to accidents and unsafe behaviour. While personal responsibility plays a role in preventing such incidents, it is clear that a lack of awareness about the long-term impact on nature is also at fault. Many people fail to realize that their enjoyment today could contribute to irreversible damage tomorrow, affecting not only the local ecosystem but also the future of these natural attractions.
To address these issues, both individuals and the government must take action. People need to be more conscious of their environmental responsibilities and make an effort to clean up after themselves, ensuring that the beauty of nature is preserved for future generations. The government, too, has a role in this process by selecting and maintaining picnic spots that are both accessible and well protected from environmental harm. Educational campaigns and stricter regulations on waste disposal at popular picnic spots could also help in cultivating a sense of responsibility among the public. By working together, we can protect nature while continuing to enjoy its offerings.
Joyshree Saikia
(joyshreesaikia66@gmail.com)