Urgent Call for Action Against Brahmaputra River Erosion in Assam
Concerns Over Riverbank Erosion in Assam
A file image Brahmaputra River erosion (Representational Image) (Photo: AT)
DIBRUGARH, Aug 20: The Flood Erosion Resistance Struggle Forum, representing Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts, has called on the Assam government to implement both immediate and long-term strategies to combat severe riverbank erosion along the Brahmaputra's south bank, particularly from Dibrugarh to Dhola Hatighuli and Sadiya.
In a formal request to the Chief Minister, the forum highlighted that erosion has worsened at multiple sites, despite the Water Resources department's ongoing initiatives, such as the installation of sand-filled geo-bags. They emphasized that temporary solutions are inadequate to tackle the escalating threat.
Binod Kedia, the forum's president, pointed out that the erosion poses a significant risk to Dibrugarh city, nearby villages, tea plantations, agricultural lands, and essential infrastructure. He stated, “The current scenario demands a permanent and scientifically sound solution. While temporary measures may offer short-term relief, they fail to address the fundamental causes of erosion.”
The forum noted that the Chief Minister's commitment to seek a permanent resolution in collaboration with IIT Guwahati has instilled hope among the thousands residing in at-risk areas.
They attributed the escalating erosion to significant geomorphological changes that occurred in 2021, which altered the courses of the Siang and Dibang rivers. This shift has led to increased pressure on the south bank of the Brahmaputra.
Identified vulnerable locations include Maijan, Nagaghuli, Oakland, the entire Rohmaria Mouza, Balijan, Rongmala, and Bindhakota. The forum also raised alarms about the risks to Mohanbari Airport and the Dinjan Army Cantonment. They reported that the Dibang River has been causing ongoing erosion from Sadiya to Guijan since its course alteration, damaging villages, protective embankments, tea gardens, and farmland.
While acknowledging the Water Resources department's efforts to safeguard riverbanks from Sadiya to Dibrugarh, the forum urged for a thorough scientific evaluation of the river system.
They have requested the government to initiate a high-level scientific study and detailed survey of the Brahmaputra, Siang, and Dibang rivers to analyze their current courses, flow patterns, and the underlying causes of the persistent erosion.
Kedia urged the government to prioritize this issue as an emergency and take decisive actions to protect Dibrugarh city and the entire south bank of the Brahmaputra between Dibrugarh and Sadiya.