Environmental Concerns Rise Over Elevated Railway Corridor Near Deepor Beel

The proposed elevated railway corridor near Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary has raised significant environmental concerns. Environmentalist Laxman Teron advocates for comprehensive compensatory planting to offset the ecological damage expected from the project. He emphasizes the need for planting indigenous trees that can withstand adverse weather and provide food for local wildlife. With 109 trees set to be removed, Teron insists on a balanced approach that considers both human and animal welfare. The project, part of the New Bongaigaon-Kamakhya Doubling Project, is expected to be completed in two and a half years, but the environmental impact remains a pressing issue.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 12:33 IST

Environmentalist Calls for Action on Railway Project

Amingaon, Jan 10: The planned elevated railway corridor adjacent to the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary has sparked significant concern among environmental advocates. Laxman Teron, a prominent environmentalist, has urged for extensive compensatory planting to address the ecological impact anticipated from the project.

Teron highlighted that the construction will necessitate the removal of numerous trees, thus emphasizing the importance of sincere compensatory planting efforts in and around the sanctuary.

He insisted that the relevant authorities should focus on planting indigenous tree species that are of moderate height, as these trees are more resilient to storms and adverse weather conditions.

Additionally, he pointed out that these trees would provide essential food sources for various birds and wildlife inhabiting the wetland ecosystem.

“Fruit-bearing trees should be planted in areas managed by the Northeast Frontier Railway, and it is crucial that these saplings are properly cared for to ensure their survival,” Teron stated.

He stressed the importance of a balanced approach, noting that the welfare of both wildlife and human populations must be prioritized before any development initiatives are undertaken.

While acknowledging the necessity of the elevated corridor for the safe passage of elephants and other large animals, including livestock, Teron remarked that the local environment has already faced considerable degradation due to the existing railway infrastructure.

“The environmental damage thus far should be taken seriously, and corrective actions must not remain merely theoretical,” he added.

Regarding the movement of wildlife, Teron mentioned that deer and reptiles are occasionally spotted in the vicinity. He observed that while several animals traverse the forest edge, they seldom cross the railway tracks.

In the meantime, officials from the Rani Forest Range reported that a thorough ground assessment has been conducted at the proposed site, revealing the presence of 215 standing trees.

It is important to note that the construction of the proposed 21-foot-high elevated bridge is expected to adversely affect the greenery surrounding the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary.

According to sources from the NF Railway, the current railway line adjacent to the wetland will be replaced by a 4.8-km-long elevated bridge, starting near Azara Railway Station. “There will be two separate bridges, one for the up line and another for the down line, both commencing approximately 200 meters from Azara Railway Station,” an official source explained.

Furthermore, the Railways will allocate funds for compensatory planting to the Forest Department at a rate of Rs 10,000 per tree.

It is noteworthy that 109 trees will be removed for the project, with around 80 percent being non-timber species and approximately 20 being teak. “We are still awaiting the final estimate from the Forest Department regarding this matter,” the official added.

Meanwhile, an official from the East Kamrup Forest Division indicated that a proposal for the compensatory planting of 1,090 saplings has already been submitted to the Conservator of Forests, Central Assam Circle, and is currently pending approval. According to the guidelines set by the National Green Tribunal, for every tree felled, ten trees must be planted as compensation.

When inquired about the location for the compensatory planting, a Forest Department official stated that the NF Railway is responsible for providing the necessary land.

The New Bongaigaon-Kamakhya Doubling Project, which includes the construction of the elevated corridor, is anticipated to be completed within two and a half years.