Guwahati, March 24: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday successfully concluded his three-day visit to Dibrugarh.
Taking to X, Sarma stated, “I am returning from Dibrugarh after a fruitful three-day stay. This visit is part of our sustained efforts to bring the government and administration closer to Dibrugarh and the people living in this region. To achieve this, we have already initiated several measures, including operationalizing the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, commencing work on the Assam Assembly campus, and taking steps toward establishing the city as the second capital of Assam.”
Addressing the rationale behind his focus on Dibrugarh, he remarked, “Some may ask, why Dibrugarh? The answer lies in our governance principles of strengthening Virasat and Vikas. Historically a major trading center, Dibrugarh was once a pillar of industrialization in India. It was among the first cities to get a railway connection, and its bustling port made it a key hub for the tea, timber, oil, and coal trade. Unfortunately, over the decades, the city lost its former glory. That stops NOW. Our government is working on a comprehensive plan—engaging all stakeholders—to restore Dibrugarh’s past prominence and transform it into a major economic and cultural hub of Eastern India.”
During his visit, Sarma held extensive discussions and reviewed multiple projects. “I met with over 60 organizations, processed 29 e-files, answered 18 Assembly questions, approved 109 letters, and conducted a thorough review of over 500 ongoing projects worth ₹3,500 crore across the Assembly constituencies of Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, Dhakuakhana, and Demow,” he noted.
He further stated, “I have written to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and Hon’ble Union Ministers, bringing urgent matters to their attention. The review meetings fostered a whole-of-government approach to fast-track the construction of roads, flyovers, highways, government buildings, embankments, power stations, hospitals, schools, and sporting and cultural facilities in the region.”
Providing insights into governance efforts, he said, “A progress report on every Cabinet announcement related to these constituencies was presented during the meetings. Apart from infrastructure projects, I also assessed the implementation of key central government schemes and reviewed critical socio-economic indicators, such as maternal health and institutional deliveries. Regular review meetings at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Dibrugarh have undoubtedly accelerated development in the surrounding districts.”
Speaking about urban planning efforts, Sarma added, “We are making significant strides in enhancing the Ease of Living for every household in these areas. The outcome of these extensive discussions will ensure that every family has access to quality housing, roads, electricity, education, and healthcare. Specifically for Dibrugarh, I chaired a comprehensive meeting to address urban flooding. I am pleased to report excellent progress on desilting existing drains, constructing new drainage systems, and procuring dewatering pumps and mini super suckers.”
On sports and infrastructure, he mentioned, “During my visit, I inspected Khanikar Stadium, where we aim to expand the seating capacity by 500%. I also reviewed the proposed site for the Assam Legislative Assembly complex and MLA hostel in Dibrugarh, which we plan to complete by 2027.”
Discussing industrial initiatives, he said, “I am also aware of the challenges faced by Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Limited. During my visit to the facility, I participated in a brainstorming session with the team on achieving breakeven in the short run. However, I was delighted to learn that the factory is operating at 107% efficiency, thanks to its exceptional workforce—a great example of the Ease of Doing Business in Assam.”
Sarma also highlighted key Cabinet decisions taken during his stay, stating, “I joined my Cabinet colleagues in an important meeting where we made historic decisions, including allowing select commercial establishments to remain open 24/7 and implementing several welfare measures for our Tea Garden and Moran communities.”
Reflecting on public engagement, he said, “Throughout my visit, I interacted extensively with members of the public, civil society, and cultural and community organizations. Given our government’s growing presence in the region, such interactions have become more effective. I have taken note of their feedback and grievances. I will return to Dibrugarh soon, and by then, I hope to have made further progress in delivering last-mile governance to our people.”
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