GMC razes private properties blocking flow of Bahini river

Guwahati: The GMC on Tuesday bulldozed private walls and properties built by allegedly encroaching onto the Bahini river that flows through the city. Ahead of the rainy season, GMC said efforts will be on to restore the water-carrying capacity of the river.
GMC joint commissioner Mriganka Choudhury said according to the high court’s order, 26 bridges will be demolished and the task has been expedited to accomplish the target by March 31. After a concrete and an iron bridge were demolished near capital Dispur, several illegal structures were razed in the Beltola area on Tuesday. “We have not faced any resistance from the public and the demolition drive was carried out smoothly. The depth and width of Bahini must be restored to its original if we want to give respite to the city residents from artificial floods,” Choudhury told TOI. He said there has been widespread encroachment of the river in the Rukminigaon area near Guwahati-Shillong Road. Of the 26 bridges, enforcement officials said all may not be dismantled but the width of these will be reduced for desiltation.