Protests Erupt in Guwahati Over Urban Flooding Issues

Protests Against Urban Flooding in Guwahati

Guwahati, May 1: A scene of chaos unfolded at the central office of the Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) in Chandmari on Sunday, where a brief confrontation occurred between police and protesting members.

Although the clash was short, the atmosphere remained tense as police engaged with AJYCP members protesting against the persistent urban flooding issues plaguing the city.

The demonstration, organized by the Guwahati Metropolitan Committee of AJYCP, aimed to hold the government accountable for its alleged negligence in addressing waterlogging and artificial flooding in the area.

During the protest, demonstrators burned an effigy of Urban Affairs Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah, accusing him of failing to take action.

“While we can attribute the waterlogging in Jorabat to rainwater from Meghalaya, what about Guwahati? Why do areas like Chandmari, Hatigaon, and Rukminigaon flood year after year? This government only knows how to shift the blame,” stated an AJYCP member.

Referring to a recent incident in Rukminigaon, where a deceased person was transported on a makeshift banana raft due to flooded streets, the member added, “It’s disgraceful that a grieving family had to resort to this because the government failed to provide a rescue boat for last rites.”

AJYCP members, holding placards, chanted slogans criticizing the government's inefficiency and demanded immediate and lasting solutions to the urban flooding crisis in Guwahati.

The situation escalated when police attempted to disperse the protestors, resulting in a brief scuffle.

The organization pledged to persist with their protests until families affected by floods and landslides receive sufficient government assistance.

In response, Urban Development Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah convened an emergency high-level meeting regarding the city's flood crisis and announced a compensation of ₹4 lakh for the families of five landslide victims in the Kamrup Metro district.

While water levels decreased on Sunday, several localities, including Hatigaon, Sijubari, Rukminigaon, Beltola, Anil Nagar, and Nabin Nagar, remain submerged.

Guwahati's infrastructure is under significant strain due to an early and intense monsoon season. Authorities have advised residents to remain indoors during heavy rainfall and to adhere closely to weather advisories.