GUWAHATI: The Kamakhya Access Corridor project has entered its on-ground construction phase, with authorities initiating the relocation of residents and vendors whose properties fall within the project area.
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Confirming the development, a Public Works Department (PWD) official told GPlus, "Preliminary works had started long back. However, the on-ground construction work has started this week to be precise."
The construction follows weeks of discussions on rehabilitation, compensation, relocation and livelihood protection for families and businesses affected by the project.
The project had faced resistance from local residents and stakeholders, who raised concerns over its impact on nearby shops, establishments and livelihoods. Addressing these concerns delayed the commencement of full-scale construction.
As part of the rehabilitation package, the Kamrup Metro district administration has proposed monthly compensation ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 for affected shop owners and property holders. The compensation will be provided from the time authorities take possession of the properties until they are handed back after the project's completion.
To minimise disruption to religious activities at the Kamakhya Temple, the government has also proposed allowing certain businesses to continue operating during the construction period. These include shops selling flowers, prasad and other ritual offerings used by devotees.
According to district administration estimates, around 15 families residing within the corridor alignment zone will require temporary relocation as land acquisition and redevelopment work progresses.
Officials have earlier stated that the project is expected to be completed within two years.
The Maa Kamakhya Divya Pariyojana, also known as the Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor, is being implemented by the PWD under the Prime Minister's Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) scheme at an estimated cost of ₹498.37 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the project on February 4, 2024.
According to a 3D concept video released by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in April 2023, the redeveloped corridor will include wider approach roads and stairways, expanded public spaces, improved accessibility for elderly and differently abled visitors, and dedicated green areas with gardens and tree plantations.
The project had earlier been delayed due to two Public Interest Litigations (PILs) filed before the Gauhati High Court over concerns relating to the shrine's associated temples, caves and sacred underground water systems. In February, the High Court cleared the project after studies conducted by the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Roorkee, and vetted by IIT Guwahati found no major obstacles to its execution.
However, IIT Guwahati recommended strict adherence to the excavation depth restrictions identified during hydrological and geophysical surveys, cautioning that any deviation could disturb groundwater pathways beneath the Nilachal Hills.