Roads or death traps?

l On behalf of around 500 families residing in Tarun Nagar bylanes 2 and 6, I would like to draw the attention of the authorities to the deplorable condition of the two roads, which become death traps even after a brief shower.

However, the worst part is that the concerned authorities have still not found it worthwhile to listen to our cries for help despite several representations.

The Guwahati Municipal Corporation does its sacred duty of sending a few persons to clean the drains once a year. However, after cleaning the drains, they simply dump the filth by the side of the roads. The result is that the roads get dirty and their condition worsens. Besides, the stench that emanates from the filth is over- bearing and the sight is least said the better.

Moreover, the very purpose of cleaning the drains gets defeated, as after a smart shower, the filth again finds its way back into the drains. The passage of vehicles along the roads too does not help matters.

We once again request the authorities to look into the abysmal condition of roads.

A. Sarma, Tarun Nagar,Guwahati

Life beyond cricket

As a sports buff, I would like to put in a few words in praise of the great achievements by sportspersons of the state in recent times.

Ace archer Jayanta Talukdar helped the country win the gold medal in a world event recently. Then, we hear about state tennis player Anjali Kalita doing very well by reaching the semi-finals of an international tennis event in Australia the other day.

These two star players have proved that there is life beyond cricket in Assam — as well as in India.

In a country that worships cricket and cricketers, it is hard for budding talents to find the motivation to take up any other game. And it is in this context that the success of Jayanta and Anjali is all the more inspiring.

I would like to request the state government to come forward and help these sportspersons not just after they win medals but at the early stages of their careers.

I am sure proper grooming of young talents will lead to the discovery of many more Jayanta Talukdars and Anjali Kalitas in future.

Haren Samua,Hatigaon,Guwahati

Tea threat

The news of a drastic climate change and the resultant threat to the tea industry, considered to be the backbone industry of Assam, has come as a shocker for not only the tea planters but for the people of the state in general.

There are reports of a shortfall in tea production by over 40 per cent from several tea-growing districts of the state due to the prevailing drought conditions. Given that this unprecedented change in the climatic conditions continues, it will be question of survival of the tea bushes.

I take the opportunity to make an appeal to the scientist community to undertake research projects to find solutions so that the tea industry can survive in the face of the changing climatic conditions.

I also appeal to the governments, both state and central, to help the scientists in their endeavour so that they don’t face any hurdle in regard to funds and infrastructure.

Amrit Baruah, Jorhat