Guwahati: Assam chief secretary Ravi Kota on Monday held a comprehensive review after torrential rain triggered artificial floods in Guwahati. He asked the Guwahati Municipal Corporation, Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority and the Water Resources Department to stay on 24×7 operational alert to tackle waterlogging in vulnerable areas of the city.Considering past incidents, including last year’s landslides, the district administration has been directed to remain on high alert in vulnerable areas and ensure coordinated response, mitigation and relief.“The National Highways Authority of India has been instructed to ensure that concessionaires remain available round-the-clock for clearing cross-drainage culverts, operating pumps and removing silt deposits following waterlogging. Key stretches identified include Tetelia-Jalukbari, Excel Care-Gorchuk, Koinadhara-Tripura Road and Jorabat-Khanapara,” a government release stated.The Public Works Department (Roads) has been tasked with ensuring thorough desiltation of drains and preventing recurrence of waterlogging. Strict directions have been issued for immediate, time-bound dredging, desiltation and cleaning of all drainage channels. “Any lapses in preparedness, maintenance or response will invite accountability,” the release added.
