It is essential to consider whether the benefits of improved transportation infrastructure outweigh the potential costs to the environment and cultural heritage
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The bright yellow and short concrete pillars stand out among the shrubs or by the roadside; etched on these are large letters in black, screaming their ownership. Taken together, the pillars demarcate a line, one that could one day just align with a railway track. And herein lies the fear of the residents of Deepor Beel.
Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) recently concluded a final location survey for the multitracking of the railway line from Azara to Tetelia, a route that will pass through the ecologically sensitive area of Deepor Beel. According to the tender document, the project includes the construction of a new multitrack railway line that will traverse through Deepor Beel, a designated Ramsar site. Environmental impact assessments and feasibility studies are part of the initial phases, with detailed designs yet to be finalised.
This move has ignited a storm of opposition from local residents who were reportedly the last to learn of the proposed project’s details.
Deepor Beel, a renowned Ramsar site and an integral part of Assam's ecosystem, is under threat. Known for its rich biodiversity and picturesque landscape, the beel could face potential destruction in the event of any railway expansion in the area. Residents and environmentalists fear that the new railway track will lead to severe ecological damage and displacement of local communities.
The proposed expansion also raises concerns about the potential loss of cultural and historic sites. The Bhimasankar temple and other local landmarks are at risk, and the displacement of local communities could disrupt traditional practices and livelihoods. As the project progresses, it is essential to consider whether the benefits of improved transportation infrastructure outweigh the potential costs to the environment and cultural heritage.
Talking to GPlus, Sonesh Teron, President of the Bhimasankar Jyotiling Committee said, "The Bhimasankar temple, located near Deepor Beel, is revered as the sixth Jyotirlinga, according to the Shiva Purana. It’s surrounded by five streams that converge, creating a beautiful and sacred environment. If the third railway track is constructed, these water bodies will be destroyed, and the ancient aura of the temple will be lost. The planned railway station could also lead to sanitation issues, further harming our environment. We are firmly opposed to any action that endangers the Bhimasankar temple and the surrounding environment."
Kestoram Rongpi, a resident and social worker, also voiced his discontent. "The construction of this railway track would mean the loss of the ancient Shiva Mandir, a historic temple that has stood the test of time. We attempted to notify the authorities and sent a letter to the General Manager, but received no response. Now, we are turning to the media to raise awareness and halt this project," he told GPlus.
Pramod Kalita, General Secretary of the Deepor Beel Suraksha Mancha, highlighted the environmental risks associated with the project.
Firstly, he said, "The introduction of a third railway track will undoubtedly impact our environment negatively. When the first track was laid, it resulted in the deaths of 15 elephants. The current proposal, which includes an elevated corridor, does not address the underlying issues. The track will cut through Rani Reserve Forest and Garbhanga Reserve Forest, disrupting habitats and possibly leading to the displacement of local communities. Despite promises of mitigation measures, past efforts have proven inadequate. The recent survey, which used GPS and drones, was conducted without proper public consultation. This proposed track will affect Deepor Beel and the surrounding reserves, and we will continue to protest this decision."
In response to the growing concerns, a senior official from the Northeast Frontier Railway explained the purpose of the new track. "The proposal to construct an additional line from Azara to Kamalajari near Tetelia aims to provide an alternative route, reducing congestion on the Kamakhya-Guwahati route. This will allow for increased passenger and freight traffic, benefiting the region. Currently, the proposal is in the survey stage. No eviction or land acquisition will occur until the project is officially approved. Cost estimates and timelines will only be determined once the project is finalized by the competent authorities."
The official further emphasised that construction would not commence until the project received final approval from the central government.
Deepor Beel, a critical ecological site, faces numerous threats, including encroachment, pollution, and neglect. The beel is a crucial component of the Brahmaputra valley's ecosystem, providing habitat for diverse wildlife and supporting local communities. The proposed railway expansion could exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to further degradation of the beel and surrounding areas.
Will the construction exacerbate existing issues such as encroachment and pollution? How will the disruption affect local fish populations that are integral to the Beel’s ecosystem and the livelihoods of nearby communities? Will the new railway line enhance transportation and economic growth, or will it lead to significant environmental and cultural losses?
The concerns are not limited to ecological impacts. Local residents fear displacement and the loss of their cultural heritage, as the railway track threatens historic sites and traditional practices. There are also worries about increased pollution and sanitation problems associated with the construction of a new railway station.
