Gauhati HC Allows Limited Work on ₹498 Cr Kamakhya Corridor

The Gauhati High Court has allowed the Assam government to proceed with limited preparatory and ancillary works under the ₹498-crore Kamakhya Corridor project, while directing that no alteration be made to the main shrine of the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati.

The order was passed during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that raised concerns about the potential impact on the ancient temple structure and its surroundings.

The Gauhati High Court has permitted limited preparatory work under the ₹498-crore Kamakhya Corridor project but directed that the main Kamakhya Temple shrine in Guwahati must remain untouched. The order was issued during a PIL hearing citing heritage protection concerns.

What the Court Permitted

According to Advocate General Debajit Lon Saikia, the court approved:

• Development of a holding area at Bangshibagan
• Upgradation of an alternative route for pilgrims

However, the court emphasised that these activities must not interfere with the core temple zone or involve any primary construction affecting the shrine.

What the Project Proposes

The Kamakhya Corridor project, officially known as the Maa Kamakhya Divyalok Pariyojana, aims to enhance infrastructure around one of Guwahati’s most significant religious landmarks.

Key proposed upgrades include:

• Expansion of the surrounding area from approximately 3,000 sq ft to nearly 100,000 sq ft
• Widening of the access path from 8–10 ft to around 27–30 ft

The objective is to better manage the heavy footfall of devotees, especially during major events like Ambubachi Mela.

PIL and Heritage Concerns

The court’s decision came in response to a PIL expressing apprehension about potential damage to the ancient shrine and its environment.

The petition urged strict compliance with the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, which governs the protection of heritage structures.

The High Court’s direction reinforces that no changes can be made to the main temple structure during the execution of the project.

Why This Matters for Guwahati

Kamakhya Temple, located atop Nilachal Hill, is one of the most visited religious sites in Northeast India and a major identity marker for Guwahati.

Any redevelopment plan involving the temple has drawn public interest, given its religious, cultural and heritage significance.

The court’s order seeks to balance infrastructure upgrades with preservation of the shrine.

What Happens Next?

The state government can proceed with approved ancillary works outside the core temple zone.

Further hearings in the PIL are expected, during which compliance with heritage and legal safeguards may be reviewed.

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