Guwahati: On-ground work for the Maa Kamakhya Temple Access Corridor Project has begun on Nilachal Hills.Authorities have started relocating business establishments and demolishing structures that fall within the project area. A PWD official said preliminary work began earlier, but “the on-ground construction work started this week.”About 15 families within the corridor alignment zone will require temporary relocation, officials said.The project moved ahead after the Gauhati high court , in a Feb judgment , allowed state govt to proceed with the corridor. A division bench of Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar and Justice Arun Dev Choudhury said there was no embargo on executing the project, which aims to improve access for pilgrims and give a facelift to the temple complex.The project initially faced resistance from residents and stakeholders over its impact on shops, establishments and livelihoods. The district administration held several meetings with temple authorities, businessmen and residents before work began.As part of the rehabilitation package, the Kamrup (Metro) district administration has proposed monthly compensation of Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 for affected shop owners and property holders. The amount will be paid from the time authorities take possession of the properties until they are handed back after completion. Shops selling flowers, prasad and other offerings may be allowed to operate during construction to avoid disruption in temple activities.The corridor, being implemented by PWD under the PM-DevINE scheme at an estimated cost of more than Rs 498.37 crore, will include wider approach roads and stairways, expanded public spaces, better access for elderly and differently abled visitors, and green areas.PM Narendra Modi laid the project’s foundation stone on Feb 4, 2024. During hearings on two PILs, govt said IIT Guwahati and NIH Roorkee studied the project’s possible impact on the temple, underground water springs and nearby ancient monuments.
