OUR CORRESPONDENT
SIVASAGAR: A wave of public discontent swept across Sivasagar following a recent memorandum submitted to Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma by a group named Sivasagar Municipal Taxpayers’ Citizens’ Association. The memorandum proposed the demolition of the historic British-era iron bridge over the Dikhow River at Amguri Ghat and the construction of a new RCC bridge in its place. It also recommended building a flyover from Station Chariali to Darikapar.
The association’s actions, carried out without public consultation or broader consensus, sparked strong criticism from all sections of society in the historically and culturally significant town of Sivasagar.
In response, a public protest meeting was held on the evening of July 3 at Rangpur Jyoti Club, chaired by noted writer Samsul Barik. Journalist Ananta Smith explained the purpose of the meeting, which was attended by prominent figures including former Sivasagar Municipal Board Chairman Rana Khan, senior journalists Monirul Islam Bora and Pranjal Rajguru, veteran citizens Ansaruddin Bora and Dhiren Chetia, youth leader Brazil Chutia, businessmen Binod Agarwala and Bijoy Chittawat, sports organizer Babul Khan, and social activist Pankaj Khaound, among others.
Speakers strongly advocated for the scientific conservation and beautification of the historic Dikhow bridge, suggesting it could serve as a key attraction along the riverfront and boost local tourism.
Regarding the flyover, they voiced strong objections, stating that the proposal is impractical and environmentally unsuitable due to the dense residential and commercial layout of the area, limited land availability, and the presence of multiple religious structures. Many pointed out that the state government was already working on an alternative road under the Asom Mala scheme and widening of BG Road from Station Chariali, rendering the flyover redundant. Hence, citizens asserted that the proposed flyover is unnecessary and would affect over 300 families and 200 small businesses.
The meeting unanimously passed five public resolutions, including a formal appeal urging the Chief Minister to reject both the demolition of the historic Dikhow bridge and the flyover proposal.
To further this cause, a 15-member interim committee was formed with the aim of establishing a broader citizens’ platform named Brihattar Sivasagar Nagarik Mancha. This committee will organize a general meeting on July 12 at 10 AM at Rangpur Jyoti Club.
Samsul Barik concluded the meeting by stating that the actions of the taxpayers’ association that submitted the memorandum, reportedly without even the approval of its executive body, appear to be a mysterious and undemocratic manoeuvre. He urged citizens to remain united and committed to solving real issues through collaboration, inclusivity, and respect for Sivasagar’s rich heritage.
Also Read: Heritage under threat: Call to preserve British-era Dikhow bridge in Sivasagar
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