Dumping ground, not plantation: Dhubri residents slam use of debris in NH-127B tree plantation project

A controversy has erupted in Tamarhat, Dhubri district, after locals accused Jandu Construction India Private Limited of using construction debris and garbage instead of fertile soil to plant trees along the divider of National Highway 127B. The revelation has triggered widespread outrage, with residents calling it a blatant violation of environmental norms and a betrayal of the project’s original intent.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had mandated the plantation of trees on the NH-127B divider, stretching from Srirampur to the Dhubri-Phulbari bridge, along with greenery on both sides of the highway to counterbalance the environmental impact of road expansion.

However, a local inspection revealed disturbing findings. Instead of nutrient-rich soil, the divider is allegedly being filled with bricks, stones, sand, polythene, footwear, wood chips, and other waste materials. “This is not a plantation project, it’s a dumping ground,” said one enraged resident. Another community member added, “The company is digging its own graveyard by planting trees in debris that will never allow anything to survive.”

Residents allege that the construction company is cutting costs by using drainage soil and unsuitable debris sourced from nearby sites, thereby undermining both the ecological goals and the aesthetic value of the project. “They are supposed to nurture greenery, but this act ensures nothing will grow,” remarked another villager.

Locals have demanded that the debris be immediately removed and replaced with fertile soil, warning that they will escalate protests if corrective measures are not taken. They have also urged the authorities to step in and hold Jandu Construction accountable for its alleged violations.

The incident raises serious concerns over monitoring and compliance in large-scale infrastructure projects. With public anger mounting, all eyes are now on Jandu Construction India Private Limited and the concerned authorities to address the allegations before the dispute spirals further.