Concerns Rise Over Anti-Erosion Efforts in Assam's Lakhimpur District
Scrutiny of NHPC's Erosion Control Measures
Geo mattress
North Lakhimpur, April 28: Recent anti-erosion initiatives by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) along the Subansiri river's downstream areas are facing intense criticism in Assam's Lakhimpur district, with reports of inadequate execution surfacing from the impacted regions.
The NHPC, a public sector entity, has been engaged in significant bank protection projects as part of the 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Power Project (SLHEP), allocating substantial funds to address erosion in vulnerable downstream sections.
Last year, NHPC approved a multi-crore project aimed at deploying sand-filled geo bags and geo-mattresses in areas prone to erosion, including Bamunijan and Kalioni.
However, local residents and observers have raised alarms regarding the quality of the work performed. Reports indicate that geo-mattresses in some areas have been installed unevenly, creating gaps that could permit river water to infiltrate and adversely affect the riverbanks.
This situation, they argue, compromises the effectiveness of the anti-erosion efforts and casts doubt on the longevity of these interventions.
NHPC's downstream bank protection initiatives cover nearly 60 kilometers, with an estimated expenditure of around Rs 522 crore.
The strategies employed include geo bag pitching, the installation of RCC porcupines, and slope stabilization techniques designed to combat erosion caused by the changing river morphology, particularly along the vulnerable right bank in Lakhimpur district.
The project has been implemented in phases, with Phase III commencing in January 2021, featuring an investment of approximately Rs 175 crore aimed at reinforcing highly susceptible stretches through a mix of bank pitching and structural measures.
These actions are crucial in regions characterized by soft and poorly cemented sandstone, which are particularly vulnerable to erosion.
Despite these extensive efforts, concerns remain among the local populace, especially in light of previous incidents.
In May 2021, water released from the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project reportedly caused significant bank erosion in areas such as Moroliyamukh, Loliti Morang, and Jogibari-Kamrek within the Lohit-Khabolu belt of Lakhimpur.
This event heightened worries regarding the long-term efficacy of the downstream protection measures.
With new allegations surfacing, there are increasing demands for thorough inspections, accountability, and corrective actions to ensure that public funds are utilized effectively and that erosion control measures provide the necessary protection to at-risk riverbank communities.