GUWAHATI: A recent poll conducted by GPlus on social media platforms has shown significant public opposition to the cutting of trees for infrastructure development, specifically in the case of the proposed Dighalipukhuri-Noonmati flyover.
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In total, 2,597 participants voted across the platforms. On average, approximately 84.5% of voters opposed cutting trees for infrastructure development.
On Twitter, 126 participants voted, with 12.7% supporting the tree cutting, while a substantial 73.8% opposed it. Additionally, 13.5% felt the decision should depend on the location. Similarly, on Facebook, where 823 people voted, only 4% agreed with the tree removal, while 85% disagreed and 11% took a conditional stance based on location. On Instagram, 1,648 voters echoed these sentiments, with 8% in favour of cutting trees, 85% against it, and 7% advocating for location-based decisions.
The backlash against the tree-cutting plan was evident, as many residents took to the streets to protest against the authorities’ decision. The concerns were particularly focused on the heritage trees around Dighalipukhuri, which hold significant ecological and cultural value.
Monalisa Gogoi expressed her views, stating, “Why focus solely on showcasing development through flyovers? Assam has many other pressing needs that require attention. For starters, ensuring that drains are cleaned before the upcoming monsoon season should be a priority. Additionally, it’s crucial to raise awareness among the public about proper waste management and the importance of using dustbins.”
Another user on Facebook Kongkona Dutta commented, “It’s imperative that alternative routes are identified at all costs. These are mature trees, and we have plenty of educated individuals in leadership positions who should be capable of finding a solution.”
Bidyut Goswami expressed his views, stating, “Those trees are landmarks that define the character of the area. I believe there’s no pressing need for an overbridge, as traffic in that location is consistently smooth.”
In response to the public outcry, the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) announced on October 30 that Chief Secretary Ravi Kota convened a meeting with senior officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) to explore alternatives for the flyover construction. The CMO stated that instructions were given to draft a traffic flow plan that would ensure the flyover connects to GNB Road or another alternative route, thereby preserving the heritage trees in the area.
The PWD is expected to submit a report within a week detailing feasible options for the project while addressing the community's concerns about the environmental impact.