The Gauhati High Court has permitted the Assam government to proceed with the Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor Project, dismissing concerns about possible structural and hydrological damage to the historic temple complex.

Why the Case Was Filed

• Petitioners had raised concerns that the corridor project might:
  • Damage the ancient temple structure.
  • Affect the underground holy water springs, which hold deep religious significance.
• The matter involved heritage protection and environmental sensitivity.

Expert Review and Findings

• The National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee conducted a hydrological and geophysical study of the project.
• The findings were vetted by the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati.
• The reports concluded that the project is “viable and non-damaging”.
• Structural designs were modified incorporating scientific recommendations.

High Court’s Observations

• A Division Bench led by Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar observed that:
  • With scientific reports integrated into the design, there is no embargo on execution.
  • The project must strictly follow drawings and designs approved by IIT Guwahati.
  • Execution should not affect the temple structures or the underground springs.
• The Court granted liberty to petitioners to revive the case if any breach is observed during execution.

About Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor

• Foundation stone laid by the Prime Minister in February 2024.
• The project seeks to boost tourism and pilgrimage facilities by improving accessibility and visitor comfort.
• It is designed on the lines of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor (Uttar Pradesh) and Mahakal Lok Corridor (Madhya Pradesh).
• Implemented by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.
• The project has been sanctioned under the Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North Eastern Region (PM-DevINE).

• • It is a Central Sector Scheme, launched in the Union Budget 2022–23.

• Objectives:

• • Fund critical infrastructure projects.
  • Promote social development in the North Eastern Region.
  • Support livelihood activities for youth and women.
  • Fill development gaps in the region.

Exam Hook – 

Consider the following statements regarding the Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor Project:

1. The National Institute of Hydrology conducted a study on possible hydrological impacts of the project.
2. The Gauhati High Court completely banned the project due to heritage concerns.
3. The petitioners have liberty to approach the court again if violations occur.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only

One-line wrap:
The High Court’s nod to the Maa Kamakhya Corridor underscores a development-with-conservation approach backed by scientific validation.

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