GUWAHATI : Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma today planted saplings of ‘Rudraksh’ to mark the inauguration of the works of developing a Botanical Garden at Old Jail Land premise at Fancy Bazar area. Keeping in line with the 75 th Independence Day of the Nation, 75 saplings were planted today which was adequately participated by Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Ashok Singhal, MP Queen Oja, MLA Siddhartha Bhattacharya and a host of others. It may be noted that the Botanical garden along with other facilities will be built with a project cost of Rs. 38.51 crore spreading an area of 56 bighas, two kathas and five lechas of land and has been aimed for creating an island of greenery.

The proposed Botanical Garden has been designed in such a way to provide much needed open space for people to breathe fresh air in the heart of the city. Unique botanical plants will make this place an extremely fascinating spot for the visitors. Different species of plants with significant botanical importance will be source of study and research for knowledge enthusiasts, conservationists and environmentalists. The ambitious project by the GMDA aims to develop a Botanical Garden with recreational activities for morning and evening walkers where people can relax amidst the vibrant and colourful trees, meandering walk ways, lotus ponds along with proposed public amenities like food vendors, parking space etc. Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma also took stock of the project through a presentation.