Gauhati High Court Mandates Ecological Assessment for Guwahati Ring Road Project

The Gauhati High Court has instructed the Wildlife Institute of India to conduct a comprehensive ecological impact study for the Guwahati Ring Road project. This order arises from concerns about potential environmental damage, particularly affecting the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary, before construction begins on this major infrastructure initiative.

The High Court's directive highlights the need for a full environmental evaluation, as the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife has given conditional approval conditional on such an assessment. The Assam government has noted this undertaking in response to a Public Interest Litigation challenging how the project is being executed.

There have been assurances from government representatives that felling of trees within the sanctuary will only occur after the impact study confirms the safety of proceeding. Furthermore, the government has committed to taking all necessary measures to protect wildlife during the project's implementation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rs 5,730 crore project last year, aiming to improve traffic flow in Guwahati. The plan includes constructing new roads and bridges over the Brahmaputra River, enhancing the connectivity and transportation efficiency within the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)