Guwahati's Flooding Crisis: Government Takes Action for Lasting Solutions
Addressing Guwahati's Flooding Challenges
Guwahati, Feb 25: The persistent issue of artificial flooding in Guwahati may finally see resolution this year, as the Assam government has announced significant initiatives aimed at tackling the problem effectively.
During a recent press conference at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for a flood wall in Rukminigaon, Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah revealed that extensive excavation and drainage projects are currently underway in various flood-prone areas of the city.
To combat the ongoing waterlogging issues, excavation efforts are being conducted on approximately 800 bighas of land in Silsako, which is anticipated to enhance water flow and alleviate urban flooding.
Additionally, desiltation and the construction of drains are actively taking place in multiple locations throughout Guwahati, the minister noted.
“We have established a dedicated flood-free mission team that is consistently working towards providing long-term solutions for the residents of Guwahati. Our strategy is scientific, based on comprehensive surveys conducted by qualified agencies. Their findings have been instrumental in the planning and implementation of these initiatives,” Mallabaruah stated.
He emphasized that Rukminigaon has historically suffered from severe waterlogging during heavy rains. “Flooding disrupts daily activities, and residents have long sought permanent solutions. The government is taking this matter seriously and has initiated several projects to address it,” he added.
The minister also mentioned a significant drainage project estimated at around Rs 25 crore for the region.
“We will excavate along the road and the Bahini River to enhance its capacity by nearly 1.5 meters. This will facilitate smoother rainwater flow towards the Brahmaputra, significantly reducing waterlogging in nearby areas once completed,” he explained.
Furthermore, the Minister indicated that measures are being implemented to fortify the city’s drainage system as a precautionary step.
“We have plans for a major drain from Excel Care Hospital, with work set to commence shortly. These interconnected drainage systems are part of a broader strategy to prevent artificial flooding in Guwahati,” he remarked.
Earlier, during his visit to Assam, Union Home Minister Amit Shah supported the state government's plan to achieve a flood-free Assam within the next five years.
Addressing the recurring flood devastation, Shah stated that the Brahmaputra would be managed scientifically through the use of reservoirs, modern embankments, and an enhanced irrigation system.
“Flood control will now be a long-term and transformative effort,” Shah expressed, showing confidence in the state's initiatives to tackle both urban and river flooding.
On the topic of civic infrastructure, Mallabaruah announced the commencement of a planned development for Beltola Bazaar.
“The community has long requested a well-organized Beltola Bazaar. We are initiating this project today to improve facilities and streamline the market,” he said.
In terms of environmental efforts, the Minister revealed plans to create an urban forest on a site that was previously a garbage dumping ground.
“This area was once filled with waste. After cleaning it up, we are now establishing an urban forest using the Miyawaki method. The trees will be native species and will grow nearly ten times faster, contributing to the ecological balance of the region,” he concluded.