GUWAHATI: The Assam government has stepped up its preparedness measures to tackle potential flooding and waterlogging in Guwahati as heavy rainfall has been forecasted over the city on April 26 and 27.
Chief Secretary Ravi Kota on Saturday, April 25, chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials to assess readiness across key departments, focusing on flood control, drainage management, and public safety.
During the review, officials examined the progress of desilting work in major drains, the availability and functioning of pumping systems, and precautionary measures such as guard wall construction along the Bharalu River and other critical drainage channels intersecting National Highways. Areas that have previously experienced severe waterlogging were given special attention.
Authorities have also been directed to secure open manholes and drains and install barricades at high-risk spots to prevent accidents. Continuous monitoring of vulnerable locations has been made mandatory.
Representatives from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), and District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), Guwahati, presented detailed forecasts and preparedness strategies. The Chief Secretary stressed the importance of coordinated action and real-time response among all agencies.
Traffic management also was a major talking point in the discussions, with the Guwahati City Traffic Police warning of possible congestion during waterlogging. Authorities have decided to activate alternative traffic plans to ensure smooth movement, especially for emergency and essential services.
More than 300 locations across the city have been identified as landslide-prone. These areas are currently under close surveillance, and awareness drives are being intensified to alert residents living in vulnerable zones.
The condition of major drainage systems—including Silsaku, Juripar, Bharalu, Bahini, Basistha, and Pamohi—was also reviewed, along with key cross-drainage structures along National Highways, particularly between Jalukbari and Gorchuk, near Apollo Excelcare, and in Maligaon.
The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) and Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) have been instructed to keep super sucker machines and pumping equipment operational round the clock, while all emergency response systems will remain active 24x7.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Special Chief Secretary (DOHUA), Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue and Disaster Management), Commissioner and Special Secretary (PWD Roads), Deputy Commissioner (Metro), Commissioner of Police, Director of Town and Country Planning, Executive Director of the National Highways Authority, and other concerned departmental representatives.
Meanwhile, the administration has urged residents to remain cautious during the forecast period. Citizens have been advised to avoid waterlogged areas, stay away from open drains and rivers, and exercise care while travelling, especially in landslide-prone zones. Public cooperation, officials said, will be key to minimizing risks and ensuring safety.