Assam: Forest department's bridge demolition sparks mass protest in Sribhumi's Ramkrishnanagar

A wave of public unrest swept through Ramkrishnanagar following the demolition of a crucial suspension bridge by the Forest Department, prompting a large-scale demonstration and subsequent intervention by local authorities. The incident, which occurred over the Singla River, has ignited significant tension in the southern region of the district.

The demolished structure, a suspension bridge erected in 2003-04 with government funding, served as the primary connectivity link for multiple villages. The Forest Department’s action, executed using heavy machinery, has been met with widespread condemnation from local residents, who claim the bridge’s removal has severely disrupted their daily lives.

Thousands of protestors converged on the Cheragi Forest Office, expressing their discontent through vocal demonstrations and a sustained siege of the Ranger’s office. The situation escalated rapidly, necessitating the deployment of substantial police and paramilitary forces to manage the growing crowd.

The bridge, a vital artery for the region, was reportedly dismantled without prior consultation or notification to the affected communities. This unilateral action by the Forest Department has been cited by locals as a major grievance.

In an effort to de-escalate the volatile situation, the Circle Officer and senior police officials engaged with the protestors, assuring them of the Forest Department's commitment to reconstruct the bridge. This pledge ultimately led to the dispersal of the crowd and a return to relative calm. However, the incident has highlighted underlying tensions between local communities and the Forest Department regarding infrastructure development and resource management.