Every year, Guwahati embarks on its ambitious "Mission Flood-Free Guwahati," a comprehensive initiative aimed at mitigating the city's chronic urban flooding. Authorities invest substantial resources into cleaning drains, constructing new drainage systems, and implementing flood control measures. Despite these efforts, the city continues to grapple with severe waterlogging and inundation during the monsoon season. In recent days, Guwahati has experienced brief but intense downpours, leading to significant waterlogging in several areas. The recurring pattern of flooding after each rainfall raises concerns about the effectiveness of the city's flood management strategies.
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The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), in collaboration with the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), has undertaken measures such as desilting major drains and constructing new drainage systems to channel excess water. However, these interventions often prove insufficient when faced with heavy rainfall, resulting in inundated streets and disrupted daily life. The persistent flooding issues can be attributed to several factors, including rapid urbanisation, encroachment on natural water bodies, and inadequate infrastructure. The city's drainage systems, designed decades ago, are ill-equipped to handle the current volume of water runoff, leading to frequent blockages and overflow. Additionally, the encroachment of wetlands and the filling of natural drains exacerbate the situation, reducing the city's capacity to absorb rainfall.
As the monsoon season approaches, residents of Guwahati remain apprehensive. The recurring floods not only cause inconvenience but also pose health risks and disrupt economic activities. While authorities continue to implement measures to combat flooding, the question remains: will this year's efforts yield lasting solutions, or will Guwahati once again face the challenges of urban flooding?
