Questions Arise Over Effectiveness of ‘Mission Flood-Free Guwahati’

The ‘Mission Flood-Free Guwahati’ initiative by the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has been criticized for its slow and ineffective progress. Despite efforts since March to clean and de-silt drains, concerns remain about the mission’s fruition and the GMC’s commitment.

GMC is responsible for 294 drains and five rivulets, while the PWD handles 158 drains. Ten super sucker vehicles and manual workers are deployed for cleaning, yet a short rainfall still causes significant waterlogging, raising doubts about the efficacy of these efforts.

The Gauhati High Court demanded the state government detail its steps to address waterlogging by June 13, 2024. Issues such as delayed silt removal and health hazards from unattended debris persist. Local resident Dwipen Deka noted the recurring problem of debris returning to drains, indicating a lack of meaningful progress. For a lasting solution, the GMC needs concrete, scientifically backed plans, potentially with expert consultancy.