Guwahati, Aug 10 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday reviewed the progress of the ongoing Guwahati Science City project at Sonapur on the outskirts of the city and announced an additional allocation of Rs 100 crore to expand infrastructure and visitor facilities at the ambitious science and education centre.
The Chief Minister said the Science City, being developed on more than 150 bighas of land, is expected to be completed in its entirety by March 2027. Sarma inspected the ongoing works at the site and held a review meeting with departmental authorities to assess progress and plans for the next phase.
Announcing the additional funding, Sarma said the Rs 100 crore would be utilised for several new facilities, including a digital panorama, convention centre, musical fountain and parking infrastructure, besides other amenities aimed at making the centre more attractive and engaging for visitors.
The project is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and the Assam Department of Science and Technology. Sarma said that once all the planned components are completed, Guwahati Science City is expected to emerge as one of the finest science cities in the country. He urged people, particularly school and college students, to visit the facility and explore its science and educational attractions.
The Assam government is also considering introducing a dedicated Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus service connecting Guwahati with the Science City to improve public accessibility. Sarma said a decision on the proposed service would be taken shortly.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Science and Technology Minister Keshab Mahanta, Agriculture Minister Pijush Hazarika, Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Minister Kaushik Rai and senior government officials during the inspection.
Sarma subsequently visited ‘Zubeen Khetra’ at Komarkuchi in Sonapur, the proposed memorial site of late singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg. He inspected the premises and reviewed construction progress with officials of the Public Works Department and the architect associated with the project.
The Chief Minister directed authorities to complete the boundary wall of the memorial premises at the earliest. He said the completion of the boundary wall would allow subsequent works, including construction of an open‑air theatre and landscaping, to begin without delay.
The twin inspections underline the state government’s focus on developing major public and cultural infrastructure in the Sonapur area.
–IANS
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