Residents in Assam’s Dhubri district have raised serious alarms over the ongoing construction of National Highway 127(B), fearing that a newly built structure could worsen flooding risks and leave hundreds of families vulnerable during the upcoming monsoon.
Local people living between Tamarhat and Kumarganj areas along the Gangadhar River have protested against the work being carried out by J Infratech Ltd. They claim that a two-to-three-kilometre stretch of what appears to be an elevated shoulder or protective embankment, built 50 to 100 metres away from the riverbank, may trap floodwaters instead of shielding settlements.
While welcoming improved road connectivity, villagers have strongly questioned the design and alignment of the structure. Many argue that placing the barrier parallel to the highway rather than directly along the riverbank defeats its purpose as a flood defence. They fear it could act as a wall, blocking natural water flow and inundating homes, farmlands, and low-lying areas during heavy rains.
Quality concerns have further intensified public anger. Residents allege the use of substandard materials and weak cement mixtures, with one local claiming the structure is so fragile that “a simple kick could wash it away.” Such apprehensions have grown as the monsoon season approaches, raising the risk of erosion, displacement, and crop losses.
The Gangadhar River, known for its unpredictable behaviour, has long posed challenges for nearby communities. Locals are now demanding an immediate technical assessment by the district administration and concerned departments. They have called for an independent inquiry into both the structural design and material quality to ensure the highway project does not become a liability.
Officials from the executing agency are yet to issue a detailed clarification on whether the disputed section is part of standard highway shoulder work or a dedicated flood mitigation component.
This situation highlights the delicate balance required between infrastructure development and environmental safety in flood-prone riverine areas of Assam. Authorities are expected to intervene swiftly to address public grievances and prevent any potential disaster as rains intensify.
Tags: Assam, Dhubri, NH-127B, Flood Concerns, Highway Construction, Gangadhar River, J Infratech, Monsoon Preparedness, Infrastructure Development, Northeast India
Hashtags: #Assam #Dhubri #NH127B #FloodRisk #HighwayConstruction #GangadharRiver #AssamNews #NortheastIndia #Infrastructure #MonsoonFloods
