A delegation led by Pranjit Das, the Chairman of the Relief & Rehabilitation Department of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), has called for the urgent designation of the severe flood and river erosion crisis in Assam as a “national problem.” This meeting took place with Governor Lakshman Acharya, who received a multi-point memorandum addressed to key figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

The memorandum highlights the ongoing suffering endured by the people of Assam due to floods and severe riverbank erosion, which have caused irreparable losses over several decades. The delegation representatives emphasised that approximately 40 per cent of Assam’s total land area, equating to around 31.05 lakh hectares, is at risk of flooding, notably higher than the national average of 10.2 per cent.

Factors contributing to this persistent crisis include heavy siltation in the Brahmaputra and Barak river basins, extreme monsoon rains, shallow riverbeds, and breaches in embankments. Climate change has exacerbated these issues, decimating the livelihoods of countless individuals, including farmers, daily wage labourers, and workers in tea gardens, thereby leaving many families permanently displaced.

Call for Central Intervention

The APCC delegation conveyed that the scale and recurring nature of this crisis exceed the capacities of the Assam state government, necessitating immediate recognition by the Central Government. They asserted that declaring the floods as a “national problem” is crucial for facilitating a comprehensive and permanent solution.

In their memorandum, the delegation proposed the establishment of a high-level Task Force comprised of officials from both central and state government, alongside scientists, technical experts, and representatives from affected communities. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a thorough assessment of the flood crisis and foster effective interventions.

The document also called for the allocation of sufficient central funds to develop a Master Plan that would address various aspects of flood management. Proposed measures include river course regulation, strengthening embankments, scientific dredging, real-time flood forecasting, and establishing early warning systems. Additionally, it highlighted the importance of planned rehabilitation for families displaced by floods.

Need for Integrated Management

The memorandum underscored the necessity for coordinated efforts among all relevant central ministries to facilitate integrated management of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries. Efforts to manage the flooding crisis must not rely solely on temporary relief measures, as these do not offer long-lasting solutions.

To secure a safe, dignified, and sustainable future for the residents of Assam, the delegation urged the central government to respond promptly to their request for recognition of the situation. The issues raised not only reflect immediate concerns but also the historical significance of the flood crisis in Assam, making it imperative for government action now.

Ultimately, the APCC aims to mobilise resources and support at the national level to address this pressing issue comprehensively. By framing the floods as a national concern, they hope to galvanise necessary political and financial support to implement effective strategies for flood management and alleviate the suffering of those affected.

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