NTPC Bongaigaon Builds Canopy Bridges to Save Endangered Golden Langurs

Guwahati: NTPC Bongaigaon installed six artificial canopy bridges in the Kokrajhar district of Assam to protect the endangered Golden Langur. These structures span the Nadangiri, Baxamara, Amguri, Nayekgaon, and Chakrashilla Forest Complex. The project cost 10 lakh rupees during the 2025-26 fiscal year. It aims to stop the primates from descending to roads where they risk death from cars.

Habitat fragmentation remains a massive threat. The Golden Langur survives in western Assam and nearby Bhutan. When tree canopies break apart, the animals head to the road. This initiative marks a partnership between the Haltugaon Forest Division and the Primate Research Centre, North-East India. It provides safe passage for arboreal wildlife to move across forest patches.

Three camera traps now watch the bridges. Researchers want to track how the animals use these paths and gather data on their behavior. NTPC Bongaigaon stated that the project seeks to create long-term conservation outcomes by combining wildlife-friendly infrastructure, scientific monitoring, habitat restoration and public awareness.

Safety measures include four signs on critical road stretches. These warn drivers to slow down near the primates. Workers also planted 2,000 native tree saplings to help restore natural forest cover. This effort seeks to reconnect isolated populations and improve genetic exchange for the species.