Did the Assam’s Golden Langurs just get their own skywalks? CM's video has internet cheering

The recent death of a Golden Langur on National Highway 117 in Assam’s Bongaigaon district left the residents of nearby village agitated and brought the spotlight back to how crossing the four-lane highway has become a challenge for the animals. After all, the golden langur is endemic to western Assam and southern Bhutan, meaning it exists nowhere else in the world. Now, looks like these primates may have just gotten their personal bridge.

According to reports in the Indian Express, local residents have made their own systems to try and prevent such fateful accidents, by stopping the vehicles on both sides of the roads till they cross. But it was not possible be alert all the time. Today, Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, shared a heart-warming video of Golden Langurs crossing the roads safely, after loop bridges were installed for them.

The tweet read, “Sometimes humans have to pass through habitats of animals but what's important is that we create spaces for their safe transit as well. In Bongaigaon, we've installed 4 Loop Bridges so that Golden Langurs can conveniently cross the road. And guess what? They are loving it!”

How did the internet react?

A viral video on X has crossed over a lakh views, capturing widespread appreciation from users. Many praised the thoughtful initiative showcased in the clip, calling it a wonderful and considerate gesture. Others applauded the creativity behind the idea, emphasizing the need for similar efforts across different regions.

Some users highlighted the importance of scientific planning in implementing such projects, suggesting that experts could analyze data to determine the optimal locations for structures like rope bridges over roads, canals, and railway tracks. Another user directed their appeal to Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, urging the government to introduce similar measures on highways passing through national parks such as Pench, Kanha, and Panna. They emphasized the need for a more practical and well-researched approach to ensure wildlife safety.