Assam Government Addresses Misinformation on River Water Levels

Clarification on River Water Levels

Guwahati, Aug 6: On Thursday, the Assam government refuted claims circulating on social media that the recent increase in river water levels was due to dam operations in Bhutan. Officials clarified that the rise was a result of heavy rainfall in upstream areas, not the opening of dam gates.

The Chief Secretary's office, led by Ravi Kota, issued a statement addressing an advisory titled "Bhutan River: 3 Gates Opened" that was being shared widely online, incorrectly associating the current river conditions with dam activities in Bhutan.

"We have been informed that the advisory linking river levels to dam operations is inaccurate. Bhutanese authorities have confirmed that the rise in river discharge is due to significant rainfall in upstream catchment areas, not from any sudden water release from hydropower facilities," the statement indicated.

Additionally, the Chief Secretary noted that the Kurichhu Hydropower Plant had conducted controlled reservoir-flushing operations on July 21 as part of its regular maintenance schedule. "There are no emergency releases currently taking place," the statement emphasized.

The Assam government reiterated that Bhutan conducts all major dam operations following established protocols, ensuring that downstream stakeholders are notified in advance through proper channels.

Furthermore, flood control rooms in both Assam and Bhutan are in continuous communication, sharing real-time updates on rainfall, river levels, and any developments that may impact downstream regions.

Officials urged the public to avoid falling for misinformation and to rely solely on official sources, advising against the sharing of unverified reports or rumors. "The situation is being closely monitored by the relevant authorities," the statement concluded.

This clarification comes as concerns grow among the public following a sharp rise in water levels in the Aie River and the Aie-Manas river system on Wednesday, which sparked speculation on social media regarding potential upstream dam releases.

With the India Meteorological Department predicting additional rainfall in the coming days, district administrations are vigilantly observing the flood situation, especially in low-lying areas.

Currently, Assam's flood situation is dire, affecting 14 districts and approximately 1.6 lakh individuals, with the death toll rising to 95 after six more fatalities were reported on Wednesday.

Officials confirmed that two deaths were reported in Sivasagar and Biswanath districts, while one fatality occurred in Golaghat and Morigaon each. Sivasagar has been identified as the most severely impacted district, with 50 deaths recorded, followed by Charaideo with 21. Jorhat has seen nine flood-related deaths, while Golaghat has five, Dhemaji three, and Biswanath and Karbi Anglong two each. Sonitpur, Kamrup Metropolitan, and Morigaon have reported one death each.