GUWAHATI: Activist and spiritual practitioner Satya Ranjan Borah has appealed to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to intervene in alleged illegal construction activities near the Hatishila (Elephant Stone) shrine in Chandrapur, claiming that the project threatens the naturally formed stone structure revered as Lord Ganesha as well as the eco-sensitive zone of the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary.
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In a letter to the Chief Minister, Borah alleged that large-scale construction is underway on a hilltop overlooking the Hatishila shrine under the Chandrapur Revenue Circle. He claimed that extensive hill-cutting and excavation could endanger the centuries-old natural rock formation and damage the surrounding ecological landscape.
Located around 9-10 kilometres from Guwahati city, the naturally formed elephant-shaped stone is believed to have been worshipped by devotees for several centuries. The site derives its name, Hatishila (Elephant Stone), from the rock's resemblance to an elephant.
Borah alleged that a businessman, identified as Ismailur Rahman, has been carrying out major construction work on the hill above the shrine over the past two to three years. According to him, large-scale alteration of the hill and deformation of natural rock formations are taking place, raising concerns over the stability of the site.
He further alleged that the developer had failed to provide an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report or a soil test report despite repeated requests. Borah also claimed that the project falls within the eco-sensitive zone of the Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary.
Expressing concern over public safety, Borah alleged that continued excavation and modification of the hill could increase the risk of rockfalls, potentially damaging the naturally formed stone worshipped as Lord Ganesha. He also claimed that any damage to the revered site could trigger communal tension.
According to Borah, the project consists of three large building blocks and is proposed to be developed as a star-category hotel and resort. He alleged that the third building block is being constructed directly above the sacred stone formation. He further expressed concern that sewage leakage, littering and other activities associated with the proposed project could affect the sanctity of the shrine and disrupt social harmony in the area.
In his representation, Borah urged the Chief Minister to order a thorough investigation into the project, including an environmental impact assessment and scientific soil testing, before allowing construction to continue. He also sought an immediate halt to construction until the required assessments are completed and requested demarcation of the land boundary of the Hatishila Ganesha Temple.
Borah said he is not opposed to development and has no personal or communal agenda. He maintained that his concerns are solely related to environmental protection, public safety and the preservation of the naturally formed elephant-shaped stone revered by devotees.