Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has called for a thorough explanation from the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) regarding its role in the recent flooding in Lakhimpur district. Speaking to reporters after assessing flood-affected areas, Sarma emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “I had a discussion with NEEPCO officials at the airport. We will investigate the matter, and if they are found guilty, they must offer a clear explanation.”
During his visit, the Chief Minister instructed officials to adhere strictly to standard operating procedures when releasing water from reservoirs. He announced that immediate repair efforts would commence on the breached embankment in Amtola, which was inundated due to water released from NEEPCO’s Panyor Hydro Electric Plant. “From tomorrow, repair work will start. After the monsoon ends in September, we will undertake permanent restoration of the embankment,” he added.
Sarma assured residents that the government would provide comprehensive support to those affected by the flooding. He stated, “Whether people have lost houses, livestock, or fishery assets-we will help everyone. The government stands with the affected families.” The Chief Minister was accompanied by Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika and Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Keshab Mahanta during his visit.
Prior to this, Education Minister Ranoj Pegu and local MLA Manab Deka were dispatched to evaluate the situation on the ground. The flooding, which resulted from the sudden release of water from NEEPCO’s plant on Friday evening, has tragically claimed two lives and impacted 243 villages. Among the worst-hit areas are No. 1 Dejo Pathar, Pachnoi, Na Bhagania, and Deobil, where many residents were forced to flee urgently, leaving behind their belongings and food supplies swept away by the floodwaters.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/neepco-must-explain-if-at-fault-says-cm-sarma-during-lakhimpur-flood-visit-1579635
Category: Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-06-02 14:09:00
