HT Correspondent
SIVASAGAR, Feb 16: Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi recently inaugurated a major project for cleaning the Yamuna canal around the historic Sivasagar Borpukhuri, to be undertaken at an estimated cost of about Rs 9.27 crore under the State Disaster Management Fund (SDMF).
Addressing a meeting held at Sivasagar Girls’ College, Gogoi said the project will include removal of water hyacinth and weeds, dredging of accumulated mud, construction of fencing along the canal, installation of lighting on both sides, and deployment of machine boats to improve oxygen levels in the water.
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He said the work will be jointly implemented by the Water Resources, Public Works Department (PWD) and Public Health Engineering (PHE) departments.
The MLA added that he had secured the funds from the SDMF as previously promised and that work would begin shortly.
Gogoi also stated that public development works worth around Rs 264 crore have been completed in the Sivasagar constituency during his tenure so far.
The 3.5-km-long Yamuna garkhawoi (ditch) forms part of the larger Sivasagar Borpukhuri and Sivadoul heritage complex.
The canal, historically constructed during the Ahom era and completed in 1734 AD, helps maintain a stable water level in the Borpukhuri, reflecting the advanced hydraulic engineering of the time.
Over the years, however, encroachments and use of the canal as a dumping site have significantly reduced its water-holding capacity.
Earlier attempts to secure central funding for restoration did not materialise.
Officials and residents expressed hope that the new project, if implemented effectively, will improve the condition of the canal and enhance the surroundings of the historic Sivadoul and the town.
Among those present at the meeting were Sivasagar Sports Association president Punaram Mili, ATASU president Basanta Gogoi, and several local leaders and citizens.
