Enhanced Security Measures for PM Modi's Upcoming Visit to Namrup
Security Preparations for Prime Minister's Visit
Jorhat, Dec 20: The industrial town of Namrup in Assam is under strict security protocols in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit on December 21, where he will lay the foundation stone for a significant fertiliser project at the Namrup Fertilizer Plant.
In preparation, thousands of security personnel have been deployed throughout the area, with the Indian Air Force placing three helicopters on standby near the event location.
On Friday, IAF helicopters conducted multiple landing drills at a temporary helipad established close to the venue.
The Assam Police have ramped up their preparations, conducting a series of high-level meetings to finalize security measures.
These discussions are being led by Inspector General of Police (Law and Order and Communication) Akhilesh Singh, with several checkpoints established on roads leading to the venue, significantly limiting access.
The fertiliser project, estimated to cost around Rs 10,000 crore, will be funded jointly by the Centre (60%) and the Assam government (40%). Upon completion, the plant is projected to increase production to 12 lakh metric tonnes annually.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma previously stated that this initiative would enable Assam to become self-sufficient in fertiliser production and supply to other regions of the country.
Prior to the visit, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the project's importance in a social media update, noting that the Ammonia-Urea Fertilizer Project by Assam Valley Fertilizer and Chemical Company Limited would help satisfy fertiliser needs in Assam and neighboring states, reduce imports, and bolster self-reliance.
Earlier on Friday, Industries, Commerce and Public Enterprises Minister Bimal Bora, along with Naharkatiya MLA Tarang Gogoi, visited Namrup to assess security arrangements.
Bora mentioned that the project, a collaboration between Oil India and National Fertilizers Limited, is expected to be completed within 48 months and signifies a new era of industrial development in Assam.
However, the Prime Minister's visit is occurring amidst local protests, with residents claiming crop damage due to land acquisition for the public meeting venue.
In response to these concerns, Gogoi stated that discussions had taken place with affected farmers, and compensation for crop losses has already been disbursed.
“This is not the first occasion the Prime Minister will address a gathering on farmland. He previously held a similar rally at Bogibeel. While the Gandhi Field is nearby, it cannot accommodate a crowd exceeding one lakh, which is why current arrangements are necessary,” he explained.
He assured that the land would be returned post-event, with provisions for recultivation or additional compensation if needed.
The foundation stone-laying ceremony is anticipated to attract over one lakh attendees, prompting authorities to maintain heightened vigilance across Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, and Charaideo districts.