Floods in Assam – A reflection of poor infrastructure

Situated on the banks of the mighty river Brahmaputra, Assam is one of the most important states of North-East India. However, the recurring floods in Barak Valley and Brahmaputra Valley of Assam reflect the poor infrastructure of the state. The Brahmaputra valley characterizes an extremely flood-prone region typified by hazards of flood and erosion that create an annual turmoil of devastations bringing innumerable miseries to the people, causing huge loss as well as damage to public property and infrastructure. The recurring flood in the state every year has been causing a major economic hazard to the state. The extent of damage caused by it has increased considerably in recent years, mainly after the great earthquake that took place in the year 1950, which recorded 8.7 on the Richter scale. Later, the tributaries of the Bramaputra River, like the Dihang, Dihing and Subansiri, which were dammed, broke a few days after the earthquake that resulted in serious flooding. In this flood, many people lost their lives, property and lots more.
 

Flood in the state is nothing new and since 1954, every year the state, especially the Brahmaputra Valley has suffered major floods. Approximately 40% of its land surface is vulnerable to flood damage. The floods in Assam are caused by several anthropogenic and natural factors. The changing monsoon rainfall, topography of the state, outpouring of riverine areas, erosion of river banks, poor infrastructure are some of the major reasons of flood in the state. Every year, the people of the state have to combat a lost battle against flood. The statistics of reveals that the Brahmaputra basin contributes to a major portion of India’s flood statistics. Another major cause of the recurring and devastating flood in Assam is also due to lack of proper drainage system in the major cities of the state. Moreover, the continuous erosion of the banks of the mighty river Brahmaputra and its tributaries is also a prime reason of the flood that has been affecting the lives of people of Assam.
 

Even in 2014, many people have lost their lives, their property, near and dear ones in flood. Last year as well, 12 districts of the state were affected by flood, in which 396 villages were affected and around 7000 hectares of agricultural land were destroyed. This is really a huge hazard not just for the people, who are affected by it but to the whole state and its economy. Government should now become serious about this issue and take some important measure to combat it. This constant flood in the state is a reflection of the poor infrastructure and by improving it can be a long-lasting solution to put an end to the persistent flood in Assam. It is true that nothing can be done to the changing climatic conditions or earthquake or any other natural calamity but by improving the infrastructure, this issue can be resolved to a great extent and save the life and property of many people.