Urgent Measures Needed as Brahmaputra Erosion Threatens Biswanath Embankment

The Brahmaputra River's recent erosion has put the embankment between Biswanath Ghat and Panpur at serious risk, alarming local residents. With fears of flooding looming, nearly 100 laborers are working tirelessly to place geo-bags to prevent further damage. Local leaders have called for immediate action, criticizing authorities for their lack of preventive measures during the dry season. Restrictions have been imposed on gatherings in vulnerable areas, allowing only essential personnel access. As the situation escalates, the community remains anxious about the safety of their homes and livelihoods.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 26, 2026, 12:50 IST

Erosion Crisis in Biswanath

Nearly 100 labourers engaged in placing geo-bags to prevent further erosion

Biswanath, June 26: Recent erosion caused by the Brahmaputra River has severely endangered the embankment located between Biswanath Ghat and Panpur, creating alarm among local residents and raising concerns about the integrity of a crucial flood defense structure in the district.

This embankment is essential for protecting the southern regions of Biswanath district. Residents are increasingly worried that if the erosion persists at its current rate, the embankment could sustain significant damage, exposing large areas to potential flooding.

At the Shingimari–Kalakati section, the ongoing erosion has drastically narrowed the gap between the river and the embankment to merely 15–20 meters, heightening the risk of a breach.

"Yesterday around 7 pm, the situation escalated dramatically. We quickly alerted MLAs Pallab Lochan Das and Padma Hazarika, who responded without delay. Efforts continued through the night, with nearly 100 workers involved in placing geo-bags to mitigate further erosion," stated Amir Ali, a leader from a minority organization.

The swift encroachment of the river has left residents along its banks anxious and sleepless, as many fear that continued erosion could jeopardize their homes and livelihoods.

A local resident expressed frustration towards the authorities for not taking preventive actions during the dry season.

"The department has deployed one JCB and is placing around 100 to 150 geo-bags. We have consistently urged the authorities to reinforce the embankment during the dry season, but our requests have gone unheeded. They only respond when the situation becomes dire," the resident remarked.

As the threat of erosion escalates, Biswanath District Commissioner Lakhinandan Choudhury had previously enforced restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, on June 10.

This order prohibits all public, religious, and cultural gatherings, including fairs, in and around the vulnerable sections of the embankment. Access to the affected areas is restricted, allowing entry only to local residents and officials engaged in emergency response, relief, rescue, and maintenance activities. Any other activities in the area now require prior written approval from the district administration.