Naharkatia unveils sculpture to honour Dehing Patkai’s natural heritage

Dibrugarh: In a vibrant step toward environmental advocacy, state education minister Ranoj Pegu on Tuesday officially inaugurated the newly constructed “Nature Conservation Sculpture” at the Jeypore Chariali (town square) at Naharkatia in Dibrugarh.The sculpture inspired by the rich biodiversity of the Dehing Patkai National Park features a striking design: a massive pair of hands cradling a globe of the world, with a towering tree emerging from the top to symbolise the planet’s life-giving force. Surrounding the base of the platform are detailed figures of majestic wildlife native to the region, including tigers, rhinos, elephants, deer, apes and cheetahs.The project is strategically located at Jeypore Chariali, a key junction near the Jeypore Reserve Forest, which forms a significant part of the Dehing Patkai landscape. This area is often referred to as the “Amazon of the East” due to its status as one of India’s largest stretches of lowland tropical rainforest.The inauguration ceremony was attended by power minister Prasanta Phukan and Naharkatia MLA Taranga Gogoi, alongside hundreds of local citizens.Minister Ranoj Pegu said the sculpture represents more than just an aesthetic addition to the town, it is a call to action for every citizen.“Our natural heritage is our greatest wealth. This sculpture is a tribute to the Dehing Patkai National Park and a reminder that the responsibility of nature conservation lies literally in our hands. We hope this project inspires the youth of Naharkatia and Dibrugarh to lead the way in environmental stewardship. Nature conservation is not just a govt responsibility but a collective duty of every citizen. Through such initiatives, we hope to inspire the younger generation to become guardians of our natural heritage,” Pegu added.MLA Taranga Gogoi, who has been a vocal champion for the rainforest, echoed the sentiments.“Preserving our forests and wildlife is vital for maintaining nature’s delicate balance. This monument at Jeypore Chariali will remind everyone who passes through this square of their duty toward our planet,” he said.By modelling the sculpture after the Dehing Patkai National Park — home to rare species like the hoolock gibbon and the state tree of Assam, the Hollong — the local govt aims to boost awareness and responsible tourism.