Karbi Villagers Oppose High-Voltage Transmission Towers Through Nartap Area

Villagers from several Karbi-majority settlements in the Nartap area have raised strong objections to the proposed installation of high-voltage electricity transmission towers, alleging that the project threatens their land, livelihoods and cultural heritage.
Residents from at least 13 villages under the Sonapur Revenue Circle have protested against the proposed alignment of transmission lines carrying 400/220/132/33 kV power, which are part of a major electricity corridor planned between Chamata and Byrnihat. The villagers claim the towers and overhead lines will pass through agricultural land, residential areas and traditional community spaces, causing irreversible damage.
According to locals, the proposed route cuts through limited cultivable land on which many families depend for their livelihood. They have also expressed concern over the proximity of the transmission towers to sacred Karbi religious sites, including areas used for traditional rituals and community worship.
Adding to their anxiety is the fact that many residents do not possess formal land pattas, despite having lived on the land for generations. Villagers fear that this could lead to inadequate compensation and long-term insecurity. Protesters have maintained that monetary compensation alone cannot replace land ownership or cultural loss.
The opposition has been spearheaded by the Amri Karbi Students’ Union, which recently submitted a memorandum to the Co-District Commissioner of Dimoria, demanding that the authorities reroute the transmission line through uninhabited or less sensitive areas. The students’ body stated that the community is not against development but insists that projects must be planned with proper consultation and respect for indigenous rights.
Union representatives warned that if construction proceeds without addressing local concerns, the villagers will intensify their protests through democratic means.
Officials from the electricity department have not yet issued a detailed response to the objections raised. The administration is expected to review the memorandum and hold discussions with stakeholders in the coming days.
The issue once again highlights the growing tension between large-scale infrastructure development and the protection of indigenous land rights and cultural spaces in Assam.