NGO Urges Kokrajhar Admin to Monitor Environmental Impact of Railway Project

OUR CORRESPONDENT

KOKRAJHAR: People's Aid, a Kokrajhar-based NGO working for conservation and community development, appealed to the district administration to keep an eye over the possible impact on environment during the construction of railway projects between Kokrajhar and Gelephu in Bhutan and to ensure protection of environment. A memorandum was submitted by the NGO to the District Commissioner, Chirang recently to ensure sustainable development and environmental conservation during the construction of the proposed Kokrajhar-Gelephu Railway line.

       President of People's Aid NGO Nava Kr Basumatary said that the NGO was committed to working for environmental conservation and sustainable development in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR). He appreciated the Government of India's initiative to construct the new Kokrajhar-Gelephu (Bhutan) railway line in a very short period of time.

"This railway connectivity will undoubtedly boost trade, tourism, and economic growth between Assam and Bhutan. However, we are deeply concerned about the environmental impact of this project, particularly in Chirang district, where a substantial number of trees are expected to be cut down for railway construction," he said, adding that the forests of this region played a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, preventing soil erosion, supporting biodiversity, and serving as a lifeline for indigenous communities dependent on forest resources.

        In light of these concerns, the NGO urged the District Commissioner, Chirang to ensure minimizing deforestation and identify alternative routes or realignment of the railway track where feasible to reduce the loss of tree cover and biodiversity, to ensure compensatory afforestation by implementing a large-scale tree plantation drive in nearby areas to compensate for deforestation, ensuring a 1:10 tree plantation ratio.

         The NGO urged for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) by conducting a thorough and transparent EIA, engaging local communities, environmental experts, and stakeholders to assess potential ecological risks and propose sustainable solutions. As Chirang is home to several rare and endangered species, necessary measures must be taken to prevent habitat destruction, including the creation of wildlife corridors. It also appealed for sustainable construction practices and promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable engineering solutions that minimize environmental degradation, such as elevated tracks in forested areas, besides ensuring community involvement and awareness.

         The NGO urged the district administration to engage local communities in conservation efforts and provide alternative livelihood opportunities to those affected by deforestation. They expressed hope that the district administration will take necessary actions to balance infrastructural development with ecological sustainability.

Also Read: Assam: Massive Fire Destroys House In Cachar, No Casualties Reported

Also Watch: