Guwahati, 31st July: Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Tuesday, July 31 moved an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha, calling for an urgent discussion on the inadequate flood management measures in Assam. Gogoi expressed deep concern over the Union Budget 2024’s insufficient allocations for flood management in the state.
In his notice, Gogoi highlighted the severe and recurrent flooding issues faced by Assam, criticizing the government for failing to allocate sufficient funds for effective flood management. He pointed out that despite the budget mentioning Assam, it did not provide the necessary financial support, indicating a lack of commitment to addressing the state’s challenges.
Gogoi emphasized a significant reduction in allocations to the Jal Shakti Ministry for flood control and drainage, from Rs 104.56 crores in 2022-23 to an estimated Rs 33.17 crores in 2024. He noted that Assam’s flood-prone area covers over 31.05 lakh hectares, approximately 39.58 percent of the state’s total land area, which is four times the national average for flood-prone areas.
Comparing Assam’s situation to Bihar, Gogoi noted that while both states have similar flood-prone areas, Assam experiences more severe impacts from yearly floods. He criticized the silence of the state government and BJP members of Parliament on this issue, describing it as discriminatory treatment against Assam.
Gogoi stressed that the lack of adequate funding hampers Assam’s ability to implement effective flood prevention, mitigation, and rehabilitation measures. He argued that investing in flood management in Assam is not just an expenditure but a necessary investment in the state’s future.
Concluding his notice, Gogoi urged the House to prioritize this issue and compel the government to take concrete steps to address the critical flood management needs of Assam.
Read More: Manipur Police Crackdown: Six Insurgent Members Apprehended in Imphal West