Ahom-era monuments in Sivasagar show signs of decay and damage

Historic monuments from the Ahom period in Sivasagar are showing signs of decay and recent damage, according to a report by The Sentinel Assam on 3 November 2026. An old drain and a flat red-brick bridge near the iconic Rang Ghar were struck by an unidentified speeding vehicle, while another similar bridge suffered damage during the July floods, prompting renewed calls for preservation.

Damage to the Na-Ali bridge and drain

The structure at Na-Ali, situated close to the Rang Ghar, consists of an old drainage channel and a flat red-brick bridge that date back to the Ahom era. The Sentinel Assam reported that the drain and bridge were hit by a speeding vehicle whose identity remains unknown. The impact caused visible damage to the historic fabric of the bridge, raising concerns about the vulnerability of lesser-known heritage assets that lie outside the main tourist circuit.

Flood-related damage to the Jamuna Road bridge

A second flat red-brick bridge, located at the Jamuna Road junction near the Circuit House and the Jengonikatia crossing, also dates to the Ahom period. According to the same report, this bridge was damaged during the devastating floods that swept the region in July of this year. The high water levels and associated forces compromised the bridge’s structural integrity, adding to the list of heritage structures that have suffered from natural calamities.

Other surviving Ahom-era structures

The article notes that additional Ahom-era architectural remains are scattered across Sivasagar. In the Phukan Nagar area, near Borpukhuri, and among the three dols that stand in the town, similar red-brick constructions can be found. These remnants provide valuable insight into the sophisticated water-management and drainage systems that the Ahom kingdom developed, reflecting an advanced understanding of engineering for the period.

Road deterioration near Rang Ghar

The Sentinel Assam also highlighted the condition of the Assam Trunk Road segment that runs directly in front of the historic Rang Ghar. The road has deteriorated considerably, with several deep potholes making the stretch difficult for commuters. The poor road surface not only hampers traffic flow but also threatens the stability of the adjacent heritage structures by exposing their foundations to vibration and water ingress.

Calls for conservation

Senior journalist and social worker Pranjal Rajguru, who is associated with the Indian People’s Front of Students (IPFS) and the Gana Swaraj Party, expressed concern over the state of these historical structures. Rajguru stressed that proper conservation measures are essential to safeguard the Ahom-era monuments and urged authorities to allocate greater attention and resources for their maintenance and protection.