Assam’s Bold Move: Stunning Rs 200 Cr Investment to Alleviate Guwahati’s Urban Flooding Woes
Guwahati, Oct 9: In a decisive move to combat the enduring problem of urban flooding, Guwahati’s government has committed ₹200 crore to the Integrated Urban Flood Risk Management Project. Announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, the initiative aims to make the city flood-free by constructing resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding climate change challenges.
The project includes the development of new drainage systems to redirect surplus water to nearby bodies, effectively addressing flood-prone areas such as Excelcare Boragaon to Deepor Beel, the southern side of NH27 from Khanapara to Basistha Chariali, and pathways from Juripar to Silsako and Sarmotoria to Silsako, which will feature a pumping station. A flood protection wall is also slated for construction along the Bahini River, covering the stretch from Rukminigaon PIBCO Point to Janata Bhawan.
Enhancements to existing pump houses in Bharalu and Lakhmijan form part of the strategy, alongside silt traps and watershed management for surrounding hills. Additionally, the plan features underground retention tanks with rainwater harvesting systems crafted using modular eco-block arrangements.
Non-structural measures, such as a flood early warning system, SCADA systems for pump houses, and public awareness programs, are integral to the project. The strategy includes technology-based solutions for monitoring hills around Guwahati to assess flood damage, encroachments, and landslides.
This initiative was propelled by a Public Interest Litigation filed by the North East Eco Development Society, highlighting the urgency of the issue. Earlier discussions of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dutch firm Haskoning DHV Consulting Pvt. Ltd. remain undisclosed, though Advocate General Devajit Saikia had mentioned the firm’s selection through a tender process to formulate a comprehensive solution for Guwahati’s urban flooding crisis.
Original Story https://assamtribune.com/guwahati/assam-govt-pumps-rs-200-cr-to-combat-guwahati-urban-flooding-1554240
Category : Assam,Guwahati,Featured,More
Tags:
