Brahmaputra Erosion Puts Lakhimpur Embankment at Risk

Guwahati: The Brahmaputra River is tearing through a 120-metre stretch of the Jamuguri-Arimora embankment in Assam. Rising water levels and relentless currents cracked the structure at Bonpuroi-Jamuguri in Lakhimpur district. The breach threatens to flood swathes of the Bihpuria and Gohpur constituencies. Residents spent the night moving belongings to safety as fear gripped local villages.

Assam Finance Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah arrived at the site Wednesday, August 5, at 2 pm. He reviewed the damage with MLAs Bhupen Kumar Bora, Utpal Bora, and Rishiraj Hazarika. The Water Resources Department is now dumping geo-bags and porcupine structures to stop the collapse. This embankment is part of an anti-erosion project backed by the Asian Development Bank at a cost of Rs 29.08 crore.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is tracking the situation from the state capital. He spoke with Mallabaruah by phone during the inspection. Sarma urged residents in Dhalpur-Hawajan and surrounding areas to stay alert. The government has promised to act fast. "The state government would take all necessary steps to protect the embankment and prevent flooding in the vulnerable areas," Sarma stated. The district administration remains on high alert as crews work to stabilize the riverbank.