ASSAM FLOODS: Examine feasibility of dredging rivers to minimise havoc, says CM
Reviewing the functioning of the department here, Sarma said that dredging such rivers could bring satisfactory results in reducing the impact of the deluge.
From Our Correspondent
GUWAHATI:
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday directed officials of the water resources department to identify the rivers that cause maximum havoc during floods and examine the feasibility of dredging those rivers.
Reviewing the functioning of the department here, Sarma said that dredging such rivers could bring satisfactory results in reducing the impact of the deluge.
The Chief Minister also directed the officials of the department to identify the vulnerable points in embankments across the state and carry out strengthening on a war footing while completing the breach-closing work at the earliest.
Besides, he directed officials to take urgent steps to complete maximum ongoing schemes within May to minimise the damage caused by floods to people and property.
According to data available from May to October 2020, floods affected over five million people, claiming the lives of 123 people, with an additional 26 deaths due to landslides in Assam. Besides, 5474 villages were affected and over 1,50,000 people found refuge in relief camps.
The Chief Minister also stressed on quality and timely completion of projects and suggested the department to prioritise works to ensure the best use of financial and human resources.
Further, suggesting a fundamental shift in the functioning of the water resources department, Sarma asked the senior officials to take up a time-bound and technology-oriented approach while implementing flood protection and repair schemes.
The Chief Minister instructed the department to submit a draft proposal outlining the areas for improvement apart from innovative and technologically sound systems to make the department more efficient.
He also directed the department to develop an accountability mechanism to ensure judicious utilisation of public money.
(Edited by Shankar Kumar Turha)
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