Guwahati: Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati has recommended strict adherence to depth-related construction precautions identified by the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) during the execution of the Maa Kamakhya Access Corridor Project, warning that any deviation could disrupt critical groundwater pathways in the Nilachal Hills. The recommendation follows a detailed geophysical and hydrological study conducted by the Roorkee-based NIH after two petitions were filed before the Gauhati High Court. The Assam government had commissioned the study to assess the impact of the ₹500-crore project, after which IIT Guwahati vetted and endorsed the findings.
The report identified interconnected fracture systems at depths between 1.9 metres and 10.5 metres along the stretch from the Maa Kamakhya Temple to the Chinnamasta Temple, and between 3.9 metres and 8.1 metres within the Siddheshwar Temple premises. Based on these findings, researchers advised that foundation depth between Maa Kamakhya and Chinnamasta temples should not exceed 1.9 metres, while construction near Siddheshwar Temple should be restricted to a maximum of 3.9 metres or the depth of the nearest fracture, whichever is shallower.
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In the playground area, fractures were found between 6.4 metres and 7.6 metres, prompting IIT Guwahati to recommend capping foundation depth at 6.4 metres. The institute stressed that strict compliance is vital to protect the natural hydro-geological system.
Acting on the advice, the project consultant has prepared revised drawings limiting foundation depths across all four blocks. Earlier, the Public Works Department informed the High Court that most facilities would be built over existing structures to minimise geological disturbance. On February 12, the court allowed the project to proceed, subject to strict adherence to all safeguards.
