The Brahmaputra Board has initiated the development of a riverfront project along the Basistha-Bahini river channel in Guwahati's Basistha area, with an estimated cost of Rs 2.68 crore. The project aims to reclaim and rejuvenate the channel, which had been severely affected by illegal dumping of garbage and construction waste.
Project Details and Scope
The river channel's natural flow was completely blocked by a sluice gate at the Natun Bazar area in Basistha Chariali, forcing the river to be diverted to the Lalmati area near the water resource department. From there, the channel flows as the Basistha-Bahini river and eventually merges with Deepor Beel. The project covers a stretch of approximately 370 metres, extending from the national highway near the board's headquarters to the Gosaibari locality near Bhetapara.
An official from the Board, speaking on condition of anonymity, told TOI, “We are working on the embankment, because the area had turned into a garbage dumping ground. The condition of the approach road leading to the end of the embankment was extremely poor. During the night, people would dump construction and demolition waste there. We conducted regular cleaning drives, but the area would return to the same condition shortly afterwards. Even Guwahati Municipal Corporation’s efforts did not yield the desired results.”
Work Programme and Features
The development work has already commenced under a 240-day work programme, expected to be completed within eight months. The project includes landscaping and plantation, development of green spaces, pedestrian pathways, viewing areas, riverbank protection measures, and improvements in sanitation and waste management. Efforts will also be made to enhance biodiversity and create a clean and accessible public space for residents.
The Brahmaputra Board has partnered with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to plan and design the project. This initiative is expected to serve as a model for similar riverfront improvement and river rejuvenation efforts in other areas.
Future Plans and Official Statements
“Work has already commenced, and appropriate discussions on the maintenance of the project will be carried out with the concerned authorities. If the initiative is successful, we plan to replicate it in other areas where similar interventions are required,” the official added.
Dr Ranbir Singh, chairman of the board, emphasised that protection of urban river ecosystems is essential for sustainable development and public well-being.
