Residents of Lezai-Bordoibam Highlight Urgent Infrastructure Issues
Infrastructure Concerns in Lezai-Bordoibam
Residents flagged incomplete or dysfunctional infrastructure, including power lines, the veterinary centre, Sessa embankment and water scheme.
Dibrugarh, Oct 7: Journalists who made the journey from Dibrugarh to Lezai-Bordoibam, located approximately 30-35 km away, experienced more than just a simple village visit. They encountered a range of persistent issues that local residents have been facing for years.
One of the most alarming observations was the manner in which electricity connections have been extended to various homes. Although smart meters have been installed inside residences, the power lines were found to be running from bamboo poles erected by the villagers rather than standard utility poles. In certain areas, wires were tied to these bamboo structures with regular rope, hanging at dangerously low heights.
Journalists were shown areas where villagers routinely pass under these overhead wires. Residents voiced their worries that the efforts to electrify their homes have inadvertently created safety risks, especially for children and others navigating the vicinity.
This issue came to light during the Dibrugarh Press Club’s Gaonloi Jaon (Let’s go to the village) initiative on October 3, aimed at understanding the daily struggles of those in remote areas. Approximately 50 journalists participated, engaging with nearly 100 locals at the Bordoibam cultural auditorium.
As the meeting progressed, it evolved from merely listing grievances to a more comprehensive discussion. Residents shared their stories and guided the visiting journalists to various locations, making the village's challenges more tangible.
Concerns ranged from electricity issues to the veterinary centre, the Sessa river embankment, and the drinking water supply scheme. Residents pointed out that these infrastructures have either been left incomplete, become non-functional, or failed to deliver the promised services.
The veterinary centre was particularly highlighted, as villagers noted that it caters to a large population but lacks a doctor or regular staff. The facility itself was found to be in a state of disrepair.
Another significant issue is the Sessa river embankment, which connects Lezai-Bordoibam with Itakhuli Than village. Villagers claimed that the embankment, constructed at a cost of Rs 33 crore, remains unfinished. They also alleged financial irregularities and called for a thorough investigation into the project.
Additionally, while geo-bags were placed at five locations along the Sessa river for erosion control, residents claimed that the Bordoibam stretch was neglected despite being at risk of erosion.
The village's water supply scheme has also reportedly failed to meet expectations. Residents stated that the water supply has not become operational, and several pipes malfunctioned shortly after installation.
During the interaction, residents formally presented their grievances to the Press Club. Representatives Hitesh Gogoi, Rupnath Mili, and Sanjib Changmai discussed the challenges facing the area. Gogoi submitted a memorandum outlining 11 key demands and issues to Press Club general secretary Ripunjoy Das.
The event was chaired by Press Club president Manash Jyoti Dutta, who, along with Das, explained the initiative's objectives.
For the people of Lezai-Bordoibam, the message was clear: they seek more than just acknowledgment of their issues; they urge the relevant authorities to investigate, assess, and take action before a preventable disaster or another erosion season escalates their concerns into a larger crisis.
The villagers called on the government and relevant departments to conduct necessary inspections and implement timely measures to resolve these issues.