Arunachal govt inks agreement for high altitude wetlands conservation

The Arunachal Pradesh government signed an agreement with an NGO for the conservation of high-altitude wetlands in the state, officials said on Wednesday.

The MoU between the State Wetland Authority of Arunachal Pradesh and the Wetlands International South Asia (WISA) was inked in New Delhi, they said.

Source:

• https://arunachaltimes.in/index.php/2024/08/01/arunachal-govt-inks-agreement-for-high-altitude-wetlands-conservation/
• https://thewaterdigest.com/arunachal-pradesh-signs-agreement-to-protect-vital-wetlands/

Urban Flooding in Guwahati:

In recent days, Guwahati has experienced severe urban flooding, significantly impacting daily life and infrastructure. A brief but intense rainstorm led to widespread waterlogging across various parts of the city, exacerbating existing flood conditions.

In August, a sudden hour-long rainstorm inundated significant areas of Guwahati, transforming city roads into virtual rivers. Major areas affected include Chandmari, Maniram Dewan Road, Maligaon, Hatigaon, Beltola, Lachit Nagar, and GS Road. Low-lying regions such as Anil Nagar and Nabin Nagar, already prone to severe inundation, experienced heightened flooding.

The torrential rain caused severe waterlogging, leading to extensive traffic jams. Vehicles, including ambulances, were stranded for hours in many parts of the city, including Sixmile, Chandmari, and GS Road.

Floodwaters entered homes in several areas, damaging property and creating unhygienic conditions. Overflowing sewage further compounded the issue, affecting household cleanliness and safety.

Key infrastructure such as roads, drains, and bridges has been severely impacted. An hour of rain created a sea-like situation on city roads, highlighting issues with storm water management.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conducted field inspections in affected areas. The Chief Minister directed the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) to expedite drainage improvements and mandated the construction of a guard wall to prevent future inundation.

The rapid onset of flooding and the resulting disruption of normal life have led to significant public dissatisfaction, with many residents expressing frustration over the city's flood management measures through social media.

The Central Water Commission reported that the Brahmaputra River, while flowing above the danger mark, is showing a falling trend in Guwahati. However, the flooding has highlighted the urgent need for improved urban planning and infrastructure to better manage heavy rainfall and prevent future flooding.

The recent flooding in Guwahati underscores the critical need for enhanced urban flood management strategies. Immediate repairs and long-term infrastructure improvements are essential to mitigate the impact of future rainstorms and safeguard the city’s residents.

Sources:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/assam/assam-flood-situation-grim-despite-water-levels-started-receding-in-many-parts/article68399375.ece/amp/
2. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/guwahati-floods-himanta-reviews-situation/amp_articleshow/111499799.cms
3. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/hour-long-rainfall-causes-chaos-in-city-floods-streets/amp_articleshow/112301324.cms
4. https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/assam-floods-heavy-rain-waterlogging-in-guwahati-imd-predicts-week-long-rainfall/amp_videoshow/111056442.cms
5. https://www.ndtv.com/topic/guwahati-floods
6. https://ge.bujournals.com/articles/urban-flood-a-case-study-of-guwahati-city-kamrup-metropolitan-assam
7. https://pragnews.com/regional/Guwahati-reels-under-massive-flood-amid-heavy-rainfall