Sivasagar: After years of neglect and repeated appeals, conservation and beautification work has finally begun at the British-era cemetery located within the ONGC premises in Nazira, bringing renewed attention to one of the region’s important heritage sites.
Dating back to the colonial period, the cemetery holds deep historical significance and is closely linked to the global history of tea. The site is believed to house more than 70 graves, including that of William Robinson, a renowned historian and educationist whose contributions remain significant to Assam’s intellectual and cultural legacy. Over the years, unchecked growth of large trees and encroaching roots had caused damage to several graves, while some burial sites were found to be located outside the existing boundary wall, raising concerns about their long-term preservation.
The ongoing restoration work aims to address these issues by stabilising damaged structures, clearing invasive vegetation and improving the overall appearance of the cemetery. However, it has emerged that ONGC does not possess precise records on the exact number of graves within the premises. Even the agreement signed between Assam Company Limited and ONGC on May 9, 1967, during the phased transfer of the property, reportedly does not mention the number of graves.
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While the initiative has been welcomed by heritage enthusiasts and local residents, concerns have also been raised about the possibility of historical artefacts, inscriptions and plaques being damaged during the restoration process. Experts have stressed the need for careful and sensitive conservation practices. If restored and maintained properly, the cemetery holds the potential to emerge as a major heritage and tourism site, contributing to Nazira’s cultural identity and boosting local tourism in the years to come.
