Rural Infrastructure Concerns Emerge as Key Issue Ahead of Assam Polls

Days ahead of polling on April 9, a visible disconnect between highway expansion and rural infrastructure has emerged as a key concern for residents in Assam’s Tinsukia district . The recently upgraded National Highway 37, lined with solar street lighting, presents a stark contrast to the kachha roads that branch into the countryside. Just a few metres away from the arterial road, several interior stretches remain unpaved, turning into slushy tracks following recent rainfall and slipping into complete darkness after sunset. At Beesakopie, a small but critical bridge constructed during an earlier Congress regime now lies in a dilapidated condition. Despite two successive governments led by Sarbananda Sonowal and Himanta Biswa Sarma , residents say no significant repair or reconstruction work has been undertaken. The narrow structure serves as the only link for several villages and is the sole access route to Beesakopie Central Hospital, making its condition a matter of everyday concern. “This bridge connects many villages. It is also the only way to reach the hospital. During emergencies at night, it is not just difficult but frightening to cross, both because of the broken bridge and the lack of lighting,” said Shelly Tanti, a local resident. “We want a government that will rebuild the bridge and provide proper roads with streetlights.” Another resident pointed to the risks faced by schoolchildren. “Our children use this route every day. During the rainy season, it becomes even more dangerous,” the resident said. Residents say the issue extends beyond a single bridge. Long-standing demands for all-weather roads and reliable street lighting in rural areas remain unmet, even as the state government continues to highlight highway development as a major achievement. The district, which comprises six Assembly constituencies — Sadia, Doomdooma, Margherita, Digboi, Makum and Tinsukia, is witnessing a perceptible shift in political activity. Opposition parties appear to be gaining traction in rural pockets, with posters and campaign activity increasing in areas where they previously had limited visibility. Leaders from across parties are drawing crowds during campaign visits. “We want a government that can deliver concrete solutions to our long-pending issues,” said Somaru Bhuyan, reflecting a sentiment echoed by several residents. With counting scheduled for May 4, the electorate here appears poised to weigh development claims against everyday lived realities.