Residents of the greater Kali Pukhuri area in Kokrajhar district, predominantly inhabited by the Koch-Rajbongshi community, staged a massive protest on Tuesday, accusing the authorities of halting a crucial road and bridge project for political reasons.
The protesters gathered at the Kali Pukhuri Bazaar crossroads, demanding immediate construction of the Balajan–Basugaon connecting road and a permanent bridge over the Champabati River — a vital link for thousands of residents.
According to locals, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma had assured during the 2024 Lok Sabha and 2025 BTC election campaigns that the Balajan–Basugaon road would be built under the “BB Road – Asom Mala” scheme.
Following the announcement, the Chief Engineer issued a tender notice on October 14, sanctioning the project at an estimated cost of ₹54.71 crore under the Asom Mala scheme. Tender submissions were invited between October 22 and November 7, with the process expected to conclude on November 8.
However, residents allege that the tender process was abruptly cancelled for political reasons, stalling the long-awaited project.
The road, locals emphasize, is a critical route connecting several key institutions — including Kokrajhar Medical College, Bodoland University, and Kokrajhar University — as well as major markets and banks.
Residents also recalled that the Chief Minister had earlier promised to construct a permanent concrete bridge over the Champabati River along the same route linking Kokrajhar and Chirang districts. That promise, they say, remains unfulfilled.
Currently, villagers continue to cross the river using makeshift bamboo bridges in dry months and boats during floods — often at great personal risk.
Angered by the sudden cancellation, locals have warned that if the government fails to revive the Balajan–Basugaon road and bridge project, the people of the greater Kali Pukhuri area will deliver a “fitting response” to the BJP in the 2026 Assembly elections.
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