PALASBARI, Sept 28: Residents of 17 hilly villages along the Assam-Meghalaya border have accused the government of failing to provide basic amenities despite years of development discussions. Many households lack reliable electricity, mobile connectivity, safe drinking water, education, healthcare and transport facilities, forcing residents to depend on distant towns for essential services.
The affected villages include Jaluk Paham, Narlong, Amring, Dumopaham, Kanthampaham, Deu Paham, Changmangor, Bhalukhowa, Nongtaria, Matong, Ulubari, Garbhanga, Natun Garbhanga, Namlipathar, Dekapathar, Pahajila and Thekerakuchi, situated in the Palasbari and Jalukbari Legislative Assembly constituencies.
Drinking water remains a major problem, with many families drawing water from streams. During the monsoon, the water often becomes unsuitable for consumption, sometimes leaving villagers without a safe supply for several days. Limited educational facilities have also forced many students from remote areas to stay in rented accommodation in places such as Lakhra and Rani, placing a significant financial burden on poor families.
Most residents depend on locally grown potatoes, colocasia, ginger, turmeric and vegetables. With no regular market nearby, villagers often travel to Rani or Lakhra to sell their produce and purchase essential goods.
Healthcare access is equally difficult. Patients must travel to Rani, Lakhra or Azara for treatment. Although Jalukpahar has a health centre, residents said the health worker is available only once a week.
The villages lie near the 18,860.58-hectare Garbhanga Reserve Forest, which supports wildlife including elephants, tigers, leopards, deer and wild boars. Despite this natural wealth, inadequate infrastructure continues to shape daily life in the region. Local residents have called for immediate government action to improve drinking water, healthcare, education, electricity, transport and communication services.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/power-water-healthcare-assams-border-villages-struggle-for-basic-amenities-1618673
Category: Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2026-09-28 11:16:00
