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Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma took a nostalgic trip down memory lane as he recreated a famous scene from the Assamese film Kokadeuta Nati Aru Hati by riding an elephant across the newly restored Kopili Bridge in Kampur. The scene, originally filmed decades ago, featured a young Sarma, who had acted in the movie as a child.
The Assam government restored and repurposed the old bridge, built in 1958-59, into a pedestrian walkway and recreational space. Dr. Sarma also inaugurated a newly constructed bridge nearby to improve connectivity.
During his visit, he laid the foundation stones for new police stations in Kampur, Kachua, Jamunamukh, Samaguri, and Khatowal, with a total budget of Rs. 18.33 crore. He also announced an extra Rs. 10 crore for the under-construction stadium in Kampur. Additionally, he inaugurated the Kampur Railway Overbridge, a Rs. 63 crore project.
The 160-meter-long Kopili Bridge was originally built by Gammon India and inaugurated in 1958-59 by Minister Motiram Bora. Over time, it could no longer handle heavy traffic, leading the government to build a new one under the 2018-19 SOPD fund. While inaugurating the restored bridge, Dr. Sarma relived his childhood memory by riding an elephant across it, just as he did in the film.
Speaking at a program in Barhampur, Dr. Sarma said, “We are building 1,000 bridges across Assam to improve connectivity. This bridge holds special memories for me because I rode an elephant here for a film as a child.” He also announced that the government is planning new projects on the land of the defunct sugar mill in the area.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building medical colleges, universities, and bridges in every district. He emphasized that Assam is progressing in all fields, and poverty-stricken people and unemployed youth are finding new hope.
Several dignitaries, including Minister Pijush Hazarika, MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, MLA Jitu Goswami, and CEMs Tuliram Ronghang and Jiban Chandra Konwar, attended the event.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Sarma visited Nonoi Sariyatholi Baregoyan Samaj Mandir and prayed for the well-being of all. He announced Rs. 1 crore to support Bhaona and promote cultural and spiritual activities.
As part of the 2025 Year of Books initiative, he also inaugurated the renovated Bapuji Hall and Library in Nagaon. Established in 1948, the library has served as a center of learning for over 70 years. The Assam government will provide Rs. 1 crore to complete its development.
During his journey to Nagaon, Dr. Sarma stopped in Nij Demow to listen to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat with party workers. He described the episode as enlightening and enjoyable.
