Kaziranga National Park Corridor Faces Political Debate

Kaziranga National Park is undeniably one of the prime wildlife areas in India. The state of Assam is where it is located. The park's fame is mainly due to the presence of the unique rhinoceros. Besides the rhino, a significant number of elephants, deer, wild buffalo, and countless birds reside in the park as well.

Many different bird species are annual visitors to the park. It is a huge park consisting of woodlands and water areas. Each year, a huge number of people are attracted to the park not only for its wildlife but also for its beautiful nature. Kaziranga National Park's reputation is associated with these successful wildlife protection and eco-tourism activities.

A new road project is in progress in proximity to Kaziranga National Park. The government plans to construct an elevated corridor. An elevated corridor is essentially a road constructed above the ground. The traffic will use this road, and the wildlife will have a safe passage underneath. This will be a measure to minimize the incidents of animals being hit by vehicles.

The elevated corridor will be built along National Highway 37. This highway passes through areas where animals often move. Many accidents have happened on this road because animals cross it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to start the project soon by laying the foundation stone in Kaliabor.

Why the Elevated Corridor is Being Built

The main reason for building the elevated corridor is to protect wildlife. Animals in Kaziranga National Park often cross National Highway 37. Many animals have been killed or hurt by fast vehicles.

With the elevated corridor, animals can pass safely under the road. Vehicles will move above the ground. This will stop animals from crossing the road directly. It will reduce accidents and help protect wildlife.

The government says the project is also important for development. They say it combines modern road building with care for the environment. Both the Central Government and the Assam Government say it is a model project. They claim it shows that development can happen without harming nature.

Opposition from Assam Congress Leader

Even though the government supports the corridor, some people are against it. Gaurav Gogoi, president of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee and Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has spoken against the project.

Gogoi said the current plan for the corridor is wrong. He thinks the technical design and the alignment of the road should be checked again. He does not agree with the corridor going through the Jakhalabandha route. According to him, this route is not suitable.

His statements have received a lot of attention in Assam. The Kaziranga corridor has now become a topic of political discussion in the state.

Other Projects Gaurav Gogoi is Opposing

Gaurav Gogoi is not only opposing the Kaziranga corridor. He has also criticized other large projects in Assam.

These projects include a semiconductor manufacturing unit in Jagiroad. He has also questioned the planned ring road and flyover network in Guwahati. Gogoi says these projects do not give real benefits to ordinary people.

By opposing several big projects, Gogoi has shown that he does not support the government’s current development model.

Political Situation Before Elections

The timing of this debate is important. Lok Sabha elections are only three months away, so politics in Assam is becoming more and more active.

Many people think that this opposition to the building of the corridor in Kaziranga National Park is also a political strategy. Supporters of the corridor believe critics are using the project to make development a political topic. On the other hand, Gogoi’s statements have made people talk about the issue publicly. There are strong opinions both for and against the building of the corridor.

The Congress party now faces the challenge of changing public opinion. They need to show voters that questioning the project is because of real concern for wildlife, not just politics.

Impact on Kaziranga National Park and Tourism

The elevated corridor may change Kaziranga National Park in the future. If the project is done properly, it can make wildlife safer. Animals will be able to move naturally without fear of vehicles. This will help in wildlife conservation and protect the ecological balance in the park.

The corridor can also affect tourism. Safer wildlife corridors will make the park more attractive for visitors. Tourists will feel safe and more confident to visit. They may make bookings for Kaziranga tour packages and other travel activities in the area.

Better roads and safety measures can improve the experience of visitors. It will be easier to reach Kaziranga National Park and enjoy the wildlife. This can also help local people who depend on tourism for their livelihood. At the same time, the project will protect the park’s global reputation.

Final Thoughts

Kaziranga National Park is very important for wildlife and tourism in Assam. The new elevated corridor along National Highway 37 is planned to protect animals and reduce accidents. It will allow vehicles to move above while animals can pass safely under the road.

The government supports the project and calls it a model for combining development and environmental protection. However, Gaurav Gogoi and some others oppose it. They want the technical design and the route to be changed, especially for the Jakhalabandha area.

The debate is now part of political discussions in Assam, especially with elections coming soon. Supporters of the corridor say it is needed for safety and development, while opponents raise concerns about the design and route.

If done correctly, the elevated corridor can make Kaziranga National Park safer for animals. It can also improve tourism and increase interest in Kaziranga tour packages. Visitors will have a better experience, and local people may get more support from tourism. At the same time, it will protect the park’s wildlife and reputation.

The discussion about the Kaziranga corridor shows that balancing development and nature is important. Proper planning can help animals, tourists, and local people all together.