Reported by Manoj Kumar Ojha
Doomdooma: Growing concerns over wildlife safety have led conservationists in upper Assam to call for a redesign of the Bhupen Hazarika Setu, citing repeated ecological disturbances along the 9.15-km structure in Tinsukia district.
Spanning the Lohit River and connecting Assam with Arunachal Pradesh, the bridge passes through a fragile ecological zone comprising wetlands, grasslands and forest patches that serve as critical habitats for a range of species.
Experts warn that rising vehicular traffic is increasingly interfering with natural animal movement across this corridor. “We are already witnessing warning signs — bird deaths and disrupted migration routes indicate that this stretch is under stress,” said a Tinsukia-based ecologist.
Environmentalists have proposed a range of mitigation measures, including speed-calming zones, sensor-based wildlife alert systems and specially designed underpasses to facilitate safe movement of small mammals and reptiles.
“Infrastructure must evolve in tandem with ecological needs. Even modest design interventions can significantly reduce accidental wildlife deaths,” said a field researcher working in the .
Globally, several countries have adopted wildlife-sensitive infrastructure solutions. Japan has introduced dedicated “animal bridges” for species such as monkeys and deer, while Australia has implemented rope crossings for arboreal animals like possums. In India, pilot eco-bridge projects in Uttarakhand and Maharashtra have also shown encouraging results.
“Assam has an opportunity to lead by example,” said a conservation volunteer. “With thoughtful planning, the bridge can strike a balance between connectivity and conservation.”
Experts believe that timely intervention could help transform the bridge into a model of sustainable infrastructure in biodiversity-rich regions.