Severe Erosion by Brahmaputra Devastates Villages in Darrang District
Impact of Brahmaputra's Erosion
As the river continues its onslaught, hundreds of helpless families are staring at an uncertain future
Mangaldai, Nov 8: The Brahmaputra River has become increasingly aggressive, leading to catastrophic erosion in various villages within the Mangaldai and Sipajhar revenue circles of Darrang district. In recent weeks, entire villages have been erased from existence.
The villages most affected include Aporia, Borala Khaity, and Bhokelikanda, all located in the Rangamati Mouza of Mangaldai Revenue Circle.
Residents report that Aporia village has nearly been consumed by the river. Key community facilities such as Aporia LP School, No. 1 Paschim Aporia LP School, No. 2 Paschim Aporia LP School, and the Aporia Health Sub-Centre have vanished, forcing numerous families to relocate in search of safety.
Similarly, Borala Khaity has faced dire consequences. Locals assert that No. 3 Borala Khaity village has entirely disappeared, while half of No. 2 Borala Khaity has already succumbed to the river's advance. The Borala Khaity Jana Kalyan High School, once a vital polling station, has also been lost.
The remaining sections of No. 1 and No. 2 Borala Khaity villages are now under significant threat.
Babul Deka, the Gram Pradhan of Borala Khaity, expressed his concerns, stating, “Erosion has become a critical issue for No. 1 Borala Khaity over the past six months. The Chaulkhowa Rawmari Anchalik High School, the newly built health sub-centre, and several temples are at risk of collapse. The river is encroaching closer each day. Despite visits from the Mangaldai Water Resources Department, no tangible action has been taken.”
He cautioned that without immediate protective measures, around 100 indigenous farming families could soon lose their homes.
Tanmoy Bora, the Circle Officer for Mangaldai Revenue Circle, acknowledged the severity of the situation, estimating that approximately 300 individuals from around 60 families and 200 bighas of land have been impacted in this area alone.
“Due to the alluvial nature of the char areas, it is challenging to accurately demarcate land,” he noted.
Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department is still awaiting necessary materials. Jiten Das, Executive Engineer of the Mangaldai Water Resources Division, stated, “We plan to implement temporary flood-fighting measures using porcupines within a week. However, we are dependent on government supplies, which are only provided during flood conditions.”
Additionally, erosion has intensified in Dholpur and other riverine villages within the Sipajhar Revenue Circle.
As the river's assault continues, countless families are left in a state of uncertainty, hoping for government intervention before their last remaining land is lost.