Flood Troubles in Garo Hills: CM Vows to Mitigate Crisis
The shutters have long been rolled out to describe the plight of the Garo Hills, where annual flooding has become a perennial problem. For instance, the recent deluge has left valleys submerged, rendering communities stranded. This recurring issue has left the opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) questioning the state government’s commitment to addressing the issue. At a press conference, TMC MLA Mizanur Kazi highlighted the urgency of the situation, seeking clarity on long-term infrastructure projects aimed at mitigating the flooding in the plain belts of Garo Hills.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma assured that the government has been working towards addressing the matter. A Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared by the Brahmaputra Board to strengthen the riverbanks from Patakata village to Bhaitbari village in Phulbari town. The project targets preventing erosion caused by the Brahmaputra and Jinjiram rivers in West Garo Hills. To maintain and reinforce existing embankments and drainage systems, the Public Works Department (Roads) has been conducting periodic repair works, including the use of boulder sausages, jute bag earth fillings, and palisading techniques.
Furthermore, the government is exploring long-term solutions to combat the effects of climate change on flooding in the region. Initiatives such as the Flood Plain Zoning and a Flood Early Warning System are in the pipeline. The Chief Minister also mulled over the construction of reservoirs in upper reaches, incorporated with flood moderation as a key component to mitigate flooding in highly vulnerable basins.
However, the TMc questioned the government’s pace in addressing the flood issue. MLA Rupa Marak emphasized that the issue has been raised repeatedly, only to receive the same response, i.e., that the DPR is still being prepared. The Chief Minister acknowledged the challenge posed by the involvement of multiple agencies, assuring that the process is being hastened to ensure the DPR’s completion at the earliest.
Echoing the concerns of residents and Opposition parties, the CM assured that all relevant departments are actively working in close coordination to address the flooding issue. As the state grapples with this perennial problem, it remains to be seen when concrete measures will be implemented to bring relief to the flood-prone Garo Hills.
Keywords: Garo Hills, Meghalaya, Flood Mitigation, Climate Change, Flood Plain Zoning, Flood Early Warning System, Detailed Project Report (DPR), Brahmaputra Board, Public Works Department (Roads), flood-control measures.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/03/05/tmc-questions-govts-resolve-to-mitigate-floods-in-plain-belt/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-03-05 03:05:00
