Assam to Introduce Bill for Urban Water Body Conservation

The Assam cabinet is set to introduce the Assam Urban Water Bodies (Preservation and Conservation) Bill, 2024, in the upcoming Assembly session on August 22. The Bill aims to tackle urban flooding by regulating the management and use of water bodies in Master Plan Areas. It prohibits land allotments in these areas without State Level Committee approval and bans activities like debris dumping and construction. Violators face penalties, including up to three years in prison or fines. The Bill will also establish committees at district and state levels for its implementation.