In Kaliabor, a small town in Assam’s Nagaon district, protests erupted over the proposed rerouting of a four-lane highway under the Bharatmala project. The original alignment, which was supposed to pass through Jakhalabandha, has been altered in the revised plan, leading to widespread public discontent. Locals fear that the new route will deprive their region of economic benefits, and they are demanding that the highway follow its initially approved course.
The original plan was expected to bring significant advantages to Jakhalabandha and its surrounding areas, fostering economic growth by improving transportation and connectivity. However, the revised alignment bypasses the area entirely, leaving residents concerned about the missed opportunities. Local businesses, farmers, and daily-wage workers were particularly hopeful that the project would enhance access to larger markets and improve trade logistics. The rerouting, they argue, will isolate the region, depriving them of these advantages.
In response, large-scale protests have emerged, with participants including farmers, business owners, students, and local leaders. Demonstrators have accused the authorities of neglecting their interests and expressed frustration over a lack of transparency in the decision-making process. Protesters have also alleged that they were not adequately consulted before the rerouting decision was finalized. Many have demanded that the government reconsider its plans, reinstate the original route, and conduct a fair review of the project’s potential impact.
The state government and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have defended the new alignment, citing technical and economic reasons. Officials claim that the revised route would reduce construction costs, avoid technical difficulties, and minimize ecological disturbances. Despite these assurances, the protesters remain unconvinced, arguing that the economic setbacks to their community outweigh the proposed benefits of the revised alignment. Critics have also pointed out that the new route may adversely affect ecologically sensitive zones, potentially leading to environmental degradation.
The issue has garnered support from opposition political parties, who have accused the ruling government of prioritizing cost-cutting over the welfare of rural communities. Environmentalists have also raised concerns about the potential deforestation and habitat destruction caused by the alternative alignment. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive environmental impact assessment and greater public participation in the planning process.
For the residents of Kaliabor, the highway project represents more than just a road—it symbolizes the promise of progress and development. While infrastructure projects like this are crucial for regional growth, they must be designed to address the needs of local communities effectively. The lack of transparency and the perceived sidelining of public concerns have fueled anger and discontent, creating a rift between the government and the people it serves.
As protests continue, the state government faces increasing pressure to engage with local stakeholders and address their grievances. Public consultations and detailed impact assessments could help resolve the conflict and pave the way for a more inclusive approach to infrastructure development. For now, however, the fate of the Kaliabor highway remains uncertain, as the residents hold firm in their demands for justice and equitable growth.