Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has highlighted a critical issue underlying the frequent artificial flooding observed in several key cities across the state, including Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar. According to Sarma, rapid urban development without proper and adequate drainage planning is a major factor contributing to these recurring floods. As cities expand and new buildings emerge, natural water flow pathways are obstructed, leading to water accumulation and subsequent flooding.
The Chief Minister raised a pertinent question about the direction of water flow amidst such urban growth, stating, “If there is vacant land somewhere, water can go till there. But if a building comes up two days later, where will the water go?” This highlights the crucial problem of unplanned construction disrupting drainage channels that previously allowed water to disperse naturally.
Sarma stressed that the issue of artificial floods is expected to persist and possibly worsen as development continues at a rapid pace. He emphasized the urgent need to improve and expand drainage infrastructure to keep up with this urban growth. The existing drainage systems, he noted, are insufficient to manage the increasing water flow caused by expanded urban areas. “We will have to make better drainage,” he said, adding another concern: “how far would the drainage take away water?” This points to the complexity of drainage design, which must consider not only the immediate removal of water but also its effective disposal over larger areas.
The Chief Minister specifically pointed out that Guwahati faces the brunt of this problem, with Dibrugarh and Silchar also experiencing similar challenges. These cities are undergoing significant development, but without synchronized and sustainable urban planning, such progress leads to unintended consequences like flooding. Sarma underscored that while development is essential for economic growth and improving living standards, it must be balanced with sustainable and comprehensive urban planning to prevent repeated flooding disasters.
To address these challenges, Sarma stated, “We will have to come up with drainage and resolve this.” This indicates the government’s commitment to finding long-term and effective solutions to drainage issues. Proper drainage systems are not only critical for flood prevention but also for overall urban resilience, public health, and safety.
Apart from discussing infrastructure issues, the Chief Minister demonstrated his hands-on approach to governance by visiting a relief camp in the flood-affected Sribhumi district on the same day. This visit allowed him to assess the ground situation personally, understand the difficulties faced by affected residents, and oversee the delivery of relief measures. His presence at the relief camp reflects the government’s ongoing concern and active response towards flood-affected communities.
In summary, Assam’s urban flooding problem is closely linked to rapid, sometimes unplanned, urban development without adequate drainage infrastructure. The state government under CM Himanta Biswa Sarma recognizes this challenge and is emphasizing the urgent need for better drainage systems paired with sustainable urban planning. The goal is to create a balanced approach that supports growth while minimizing environmental risks and protecting citizens from recurring artificial floods. Simultaneously, the government remains committed to providing immediate relief and support to those impacted by floods, as demonstrated by the Chief Minister’s engagement with affected communities. This dual approach aims to address both the symptoms and root causes of urban flooding in Assam’s major cities.