Udalguri – Assam’s Water Resources Minister, Pijush Hazarika, today undertook a crucial inspection of newly completed flood protection works in Udalguri district, marking a proactive stride in the state’s ongoing battle against the annual monsoon fury unleashed by waters cascading from the Bhutanese hills. The visit underscores Assam’s determined effort to mitigate the devastating impact of these recurring deluges.
A significant highlight of the inspection was the Golondi River embankment, a structure that has historically borne the brunt of relentless floodwaters originating from neighbouring Bhutan. Now, a robust 4.4-kilometre Ready-Made Embankment stands tall along its right bank. The diligent Udalguri Division of the Water Resources Department has further shored up vulnerable sections with strategically placed geo-bags and an array of porcupine barriers, designed to fend off relentless erosion and ensure the embankment’s steadfastness.
“Floodwaters from the Bhutan hills have repeatedly breached this embankment, creating serious risks for surrounding communities,” Minister Hazarika articulated during his visit, acknowledging the persistent threat. He further elaborated on the state’s comprehensive vision, revealing plans for additional protective measures, including the deployment of geo mega tubes, which are slated for installation once the current monsoon season subsides.
Looking ahead, the department has outlined an ambitious strategy to extend these critical flood control installations to the opposite bank of the river after the monsoon recedes, thereby offering holistic protection to the entire region. Officials on site provided the Minister with a detailed briefing on the existing maintenance protocols and the sophisticated monitoring systems in place, all meticulously designed to assess the structural integrity of these defences during periods of intense rainfall.
In a bold assertion, Minister Hazarika claimed that Assam’s perennial flood woes are “almost becoming an issue of the past” under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. While the state undeniably faces formidable annual monsoon challenges across numerous districts, this statement reflects a renewed confidence in the efficacy of the measures being implemented.
The inspection team comprised notable dignitaries, including MLA Gobinda Chandra Basumatary, the Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department, and a host of other dedicated departmental officials. Together, they provided the Minister with comprehensive updates on the ongoing interventions and shared insights into the meticulously planned future phases of flood mitigation efforts.
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