Long-Term Impact of Riverbank Erosion in Assam Highlighted by Central Team

A recent assessment by a Central Team in Assam has revealed that riverbank erosion is a more pressing long-term issue than flooding. The team, which included officials from various ministries, conducted site visits and engaged with local authorities and residents. They reported significant damage to infrastructure and agricultural land due to recent floods. Recommendations for improved water resource management and erosion mitigation strategies were emphasized, highlighting the need for urgent action before the next flood season. This report sheds light on the critical challenges faced by Assam in managing its water resources effectively.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2026, 11:45 IST

Assessment of Flood Damage in Assam

An image of the Dikrong riverbank erosion. (AT Photo)

Guwahati, July 12: A Central Team from various ministries conducted an on-site evaluation of the flood damage in Assam and concluded that riverbank erosion poses a more significant long-term threat than flooding in many regions.

The delegation, led by Praveen Kumar Rai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, included representatives from the Ministry of Finance, National Remote Sensing Centre, Central Water Commission, Ministry of Rural Development, and Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.

One subgroup focused on Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Biswanath, while another assessed Cachar, Bajali, and Chirang. After engaging with local administrations, public officials, and affected residents, the team presented their findings and suggestions during a review meeting. They reported that 549 villages and over 8,000 hectares of farmland were affected by the recent floods.

While the team noted the destruction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and homes, they emphasized that riverbank erosion is a more pressing long-term issue in various areas of Assam.

In discussions with Chief Secretary Ravi Kota and other state officials, the necessity for a thorough evaluation of water resource management, especially in the Barak Valley, was underscored. They recommended mitigation strategies, including dredging and desilting in at-risk areas like Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Biswanath, as well as the strategic deployment of geo-tube bags in smaller rivers to combat erosion.

The team also highlighted the urgent need to reinforce aging embankments that are susceptible to breaches ahead of the upcoming flood season.

Utilizing satellite imagery and scientific data, the team pointed out the importance of managing excessive runoff from upstream areas and utilizing Assam's beels and other natural wetlands as water retention systems to mitigate peak flows and lessen the risk of flash floods.

The Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of managing upstream water inflows, particularly those from Bhutan. The review also included sector-specific impacts reported by various departments, with damages noted by the Public Works Department in 14 districts, Public Health Engineering in 14 districts, Power in 4 districts, School Education in 6 districts, and Irrigation in 2 districts.

Staff Correspondent