The Public Works Department (PWD) has officially clarified that no trees were cut down near Guwahati’s historic Dighalipukhuri, countering widespread social media claims that sparked public outrage.
The controversy erupted after actor Ravi Sarma shared videos alleging tree cutting in the area, especially sensitive following the death of singer Zubeen Garg. However, PWD officials confirmed that 77 trees were only transplanted, not felled, as part of the ongoing flyover construction linking Handloom Textiles to Dighalipukhuri.
According to the department, 34 trees were relocated within the Handloom Textiles campus, while 43 were replanted at Lachit Ghat. The transplantation was executed by a Delhi-based firm, ensuring even large, mature trees were safely moved without damage.
Minister for Public Relations and Water Resources, Pijush Hazarika, took to social media dismissing the viral claims as “false propaganda.” He reaffirmed that no trees along Dighalipukhuri’s banks have been cut and emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting Guwahati’s green cover.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also echoed this assurance, stating that the city’s greenery remains untouched. Yet, despite repeated clarifications, a section of protesters continues to express concern over the timing of the construction work, calling for greater sensitivity in the wake of Zubeen Garg’s passing.
The PWD, meanwhile, has appealed to citizens not to fall for misinformation and reiterated that all infrastructure projects in Guwahati are being implemented with a focus on environmental conservation.
