Assam’s Chandubi Lake to get eco-tourism push with govt-community collaboration

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 5, 2025

Assam Tourism and Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass has unveiled a significant initiative, bringing together the government and local communities to conserve Chandubi Lake and its surrounding biodiversity. The announcement, aimed at fostering eco-tourism and environmental preservation, was made during the vibrant Chandubi Festival 2025, which began on January 1 and will continue until January 6 in Rajapara, Kamrup district.

Now in its 14th year, the Chandubi Festival is a hallmark of Assamese cultural pride, organized annually by the residents of Rajapara village under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC). The five-day event offers a rich tapestry of folk music and dance performances, exhibitions of local handicrafts, and food stalls featuring traditional Assamese cuisine. Beyond festivities, the festival underscores the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

While attending the festival, Minister Dass interacted with organizers and community leaders, pledging an annual financial support of Rs 50,000 from the tourism department to sustain the festival. He emphasized a collaborative approach, involving the forest and water resource departments, to bolster eco-tourism and address environmental concerns.

Dass highlighted the critical need to tackle declining water levels in Chandubi Beel, outlining strategies for ecosystem preservation. “We will work with all stakeholders to make Chandubi a prominent tourism destination while conserving its biodiversity,” he stated, reaffirming the government’s dedication to sustainable development in the region.