In Guwahati, a large group of residents recently gathered to protest the planned felling of trees along a stretch of land earmarked for the construction of a railway overbridge. Around 100 individuals, including both senior citizens and young people, formed a human chain to voice their opposition to the decision. This demonstration took place along the busy roads of the city, with the protesters holding placards and chanting slogans in an effort to raise awareness about the environmental impact of cutting down decades-old trees.
The protest was a direct response to the state government’s decision to fell trees in the area to make way for the proposed infrastructure project. The railway overbridge is intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in one of the most densely populated regions of Guwahati. However, residents argue that the environmental cost of cutting down the mature trees outweighs the potential benefits of the new bridge.
The trees, some of which have stood for more than 50 years, are not just a scenic addition to the area; they provide shade, absorb carbon dioxide, and contribute to the overall greenery of the city. Many residents, who have lived in the area for years, feel a strong attachment to the trees, and their removal represents a significant loss. “These trees are a part of our lives. They have witnessed our growth, and we have witnessed theirs,” said one protester. “The government needs to consider alternatives that don’t harm our environment.”
The human chain was a peaceful demonstration aimed at drawing attention to the issue and urging the authorities to reconsider the decision. Protesters stood side by side for hours, expressing their determination to protect the trees. They called for a more sustainable approach to the construction of the railway overbridge that would minimize the environmental impact. The placards they carried carried messages of preservation, such as “Save Trees, Save Life” and “No to Tree Cutting.”
The protest highlighted the growing concern among residents about the rapid urbanization and development in Guwahati. As the city expands and infrastructure projects are initiated to accommodate the increasing population and traffic, the delicate balance between development and environmental conservation becomes more fragile. Critics of the tree felling plan argue that the project does not need to come at the expense of the city’s natural resources.
Environmentalists have also raised alarms about the loss of greenery in Guwahati, pointing out that the city has already seen a significant reduction in its tree cover over the years. The removal of trees for urban development has been a contentious issue in many parts of India, and Guwahati is no exception. While infrastructure projects are necessary for the city’s growth, experts argue that these projects should be designed in a way that prioritizes the environment. The protestors are not against the overbridge itself, but rather the way in which it is being constructed without adequate consideration of the long-term environmental consequences.
In response to the demonstration, local authorities have promised to look into the concerns raised by the residents. City officials have acknowledged the importance of the trees to the community and indicated that alternatives to cutting them down will be explored. However, no official decisions have been made at this time, and the residents’ plea for action remains ongoing.
The human chain in Guwahati represents a growing movement among citizens who are becoming increasingly aware of the need to protect their local environment. As the world grapples with climate change and environmental degradation, such protests serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural resources, even in the face of urbanization. While progress and development are necessary for any city to thrive, it is equally important to strike a balance that ensures the well-being of both the environment and its residents.
In the coming weeks, it will be interesting to see whether the local authorities will heed the call to protect the trees or proceed with their plans to remove them. For now, the residents of Guwahati have made their voices heard, and their commitment to preserving their city’s green spaces remains strong.