A CORRESPONDENT
ORANG: The Golandi river, flowing through West Khuchurabari-Habi village under the Bhairabkunda constituency of Udalguri district, has unleashed severe erosion, causing extensive damage to the area. Villagers reported that more than one thousand bighas of cultivable land have already been swallowed by the river.
Currently, the strong currents of the Golandi river are threatening to erode the road connecting Gerengchi’s Hanuman temple to West Khuchurabari Habi. Locals fear that if the annual floods during the month of Bhado (August–September) strike, both the approach road and the village itself could face devastating destruction.
Despite repeated appeals to the present BTC administration, residents allege that no remedial action has been taken so far. Left with no alternative, villagers informed BJP Udalguri District Treasurer and probable Bhairabkunda BTC constituency candidate, Ganda Khungur Basumatary, about their plight. Responding promptly, Basumatary visited the erosion-hit site on Monday and interacted with the distressed farmers, and assessed the scale of damage. He assured villagers that he would urge the concerned departmental authorities to construct a temporary embankment immediately to prevent further erosion.
The visit also brought to light another longstanding issue of the absence of a proper road to the village. Locals revealed that in case of a medical emergency, patients must be carried on makeshift bamboo stretchers for nearly 10 kilometers before reaching a motorable point.
Residents have demanded the construction of a bridge over the Golandi river from West Khuchurabari-Habi to Khawrang via Narayanpur Chariali, which would significantly improve connectivity. Basumatary assured the public that he would bring the matter, including the need for embankments and a bridge, to the attention of Cabinet Minister Pijush Hazarika.
The villagers now await concrete action to safeguard their homes, farmlands, and lifeline infrastructure before the next wave of floods strikes.
Also Read: Assam Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika inspects severe erosion in Chhaygaon
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