Unlocking Assam’s Future: Transformative Feasibility Report on Wetlands for Powerful Flood Control Solutions
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan has instructed the Assam government to submit a feasibility report by December on the potential diversion of floodwaters through 271 identified wetlands. This initiative, aimed at rejuvenating these wetlands for floodwater storage, could cost around Rs 500 crore. The exact number of wetlands to be developed will be determined after a comprehensive survey.
During his two-day visit to Assam, Mohan conducted review meetings covering topics such as law and order, border management among Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as flood control measures and tribal council statuses. Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota highlighted Mohan’s emphasis on utilizing wetlands to manage the water levels of Brahmaputra’s tributaries. Although managing the entire Brahmaputra River is not feasible through this project, the goal is to regulate the tributaries affecting various villages.
The North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) initially identified these wetlands, and the Water Resources Department (WRD) has pinpointed nine wetlands in seven districts as a starting point, earmarking Rs 380.60 crore for these projects while seeking additional central funding. Mohan also explored the potential involvement of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in overseeing this project.
Additionally, the fishery department discussed the Sustainable Wetland and Integrated Fisheries Transformation (SWIFT) project, set to be funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), focusing partly on floodwater storage.
In border-related developments, Mohan reviewed talks on border disputes between Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. He urged Assam and Meghalaya to expedite the surveying of six disputed areas, while border settlements for 38 villages along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border are also set for completion. The longstanding border issues stem from Meghalaya being part of Assam until 1972, and Arunachal Pradesh’s evolution from a centrally-administered region to a state in 1987. Efforts continue to resolve these disputes through ongoing agreements and court considerations.
Original Story https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/assam-to-prepare-feasibility-report-on-wetlands-for-effective-flood-control-measures/articleshow/115061758.cms
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Publish Date: 2024-11-07 23:10:00
