Heavy rain continues to batter Assam as the state struggles to recover from the floods that impacted over 24 lakh people across 30 districts, including Cachar, Kamrup, Dhubri, Nagaon, and others.
With more than 120 river streams running through the state, many originating from the extreme rainfall hotspots in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya, these swollen rivers flood homes and fields, leaving devastation in their path. Another factor worsening the situation is deforestation in the North East.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared satellite images on X, illustrating the extent of deforestation near the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) and other regions.
These images reveal how such environmental degradation contributes to rapid flooding in Guwahati, particularly following cloud bursts.
The Greater Jorabat Hills, located just 6-7 kilometers from Guwahati, have experienced significant deforestation. This loss of forest cover has exacerbated flooding, as trees and their root systems play a crucial role in stabilizing soil and absorbing rainwater. Without this natural barrier, rainwater flows unchecked, leading to severe erosion and increased runoff into urban areas.
A report by the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) pointed to the impact of deforestation on Guwahati's flood situation. The removal of trees in the foothills has led to soil loosening and massive erosion, which in turn clogs drainage channels with silt. This reduces the city's drainage capacity, making it more susceptible to flash floods and waterlogging.
The problem is compounded by unplanned construction and encroachment on natural wetlands and reservoirs. These areas, once capable of absorbing excess rainwater, have been fragmented and filled, further diminishing their ability to mitigate floods. The result is a city increasingly vulnerable to flooding, with significant implications for public health and safety.
Environmental experts agree that deforestation is a major factor in worsening floods in Assam. Deforestation and haphazard hill-cutting are two significant causes of floods in Assam. The loss of forest cover leads to soil erosion, reducing the land's ability to absorb rainwater and increasing surface runoff.
The situation is dire, but there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the impact. Chief Minister Sarma emphasised the need for collaboration with the Meghalaya government to protect shared habitats.
Initiatives such as afforestation, better land-use planning, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations are essential to preserving the region's ecological balance.
In addition to these measures, the implementation of advanced flood warning systems, like the one currently being piloted in Guwahati, could help authorities prepare for and respond to flood events more effectively.
However, addressing the root causes of deforestation and environmental degradation remains crucial for long-term flood mitigation.
Source: India Today