Assam's Flood Management Efforts Gain Momentum with New Projects
Significant Progress in Flood Control Initiatives
Silchar, Dec 23: On Tuesday, Pijush Hazarika, the Minister of Water Resources, announced that approximately 70% of flood-prone regions in Assam have been effectively managed, thanks to a substantial increase in the flood management budget from Rs 300 crore to Rs 2,000 crore.
During the event, he laid the foundation for a significant RCC drain project in Bilpar, aimed at alleviating urban flooding in Silchar over the long term.
This Rs 4.80 crore initiative, located near the Radha Madhab Akhra, will facilitate the movement of two- and three-wheelers, thereby enhancing local connectivity alongside drainage improvements.
Hazarika emphasized that Silchar and the Barak Valley are now top priorities in the government's development plans, especially following years of neglect and the severe impact of the 2022 floods.
"Over the past four and a half years, we have invested Rs 215 crore in flood mitigation efforts in Cachar, with an additional Rs 300 crore pledged. I am confident that the Bilpar project will be completed within six months," he stated, highlighting the focus on sustainable, science-based solutions instead of temporary measures.
He contrasted the current administration's efforts with those of the previous Congress government, recalling a time when the region suffered from poor infrastructure, including damaged roads and inadequate rail and air services.
Hazarika also pointed out that Assam has experienced significant public infrastructure growth in the last decade, with the number of medical colleges increasing from six to 21 and universities from 12 to 31, alongside the creation of nearly 200,000 jobs through transparent hiring processes.
Kaushik Rai, the Barak Valley Development Minister, reiterated the government's commitment to reducing flood damage in Silchar, as he laid the foundation for a Rs 4 crore project in Binnakandi Part–II, aimed at controlling erosion along the Barak River.
Rai noted that this initiative will protect numerous villages and educational institutions, playing a crucial role in safeguarding the local community's lives and property.
Dipayan Chakraborty, the MLA for Silchar, mentioned that the new drain, which will extend approximately 480 meters from Singerkhal to Rangirkhal, is expected to significantly reduce waterlogging in Silchar for several decades.
He added that related works, including interventions in the Tarapur sinking zone, reinforcement of the Bethukandi dyke, and the installation of a double-shutter sluice gate, are part of a comprehensive flood-control strategy for the region's second-largest urban area.
The event was also attended by Cachar District Commissioner Mridul Yadav and senior officials from the Water Resources Department.