Assam Launches Eviction Drive to Ensure Flood-Free Guwahati

On May 20, Assam government and GMDA conducted an eviction drive at Omeo Kumar Das Institute in Guwahati’s Chachal area to tackle encroachments near Silsako Beel, aiming to make Guwahati flood-free. Led by Housing Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah, the operation targets reducing flooding caused by rapid water flow from Meghalaya due to deforestation. The drive increases the wetland’s retention capacity by clearing structures, converting cleared land into retention tanks to store and divert water to the Brahmaputra. Authorities noted cooperation from the institute and plan further evictions by May 30, with flood relief expected in two to three years under CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s guidance.