Cold storage facility lies abandoned in Assam's Samaguri, farmers demand immediate operationalisation

At a time when farmers across Assam are struggling due to the lack of adequate cold storage facilities, the neglected state of a cold storage unit in Samaguri's Rongagarh area of Nagaon district has come under scrutiny, triggering resentment among local residents.

According to locals, the cold storage facility was constructed in 2011 at a cost of several crores of rupees with the aim of helping farmers preserve their agricultural produce. However, despite the significant public investment, the facility has never been made operational.

The prolonged delay has resulted in the deterioration of infrastructure and equipment inside the complex. The premises are now overgrown with weeds and vegetation, while parts of the facility have reportedly become a hub for anti-social activities.

The issue has gained attention amid growing concerns over post-harvest losses suffered by farmers in Assam. In the absence of sufficient cold storage infrastructure, large quantities of fruits, vegetables and other agricultural produce often perish due to extreme heat or the inability to find timely buyers.

Local residents have expressed frustration over the apparent wastage of public funds and questioned why the facility remains unused more than a decade after its construction. They argue that making the cold storage unit operational would provide much-needed support to farmers in the region and help reduce losses caused by spoilage.

Residents have urged the state government to intervene and ensure that the cold storage facility is opened and made functional at the earliest for the benefit of the farming community.