Water Release from Subansiri Dam Strands Dozens in Assam

Itanagar: Panic spread through the Lakhimpur district of Assam on Thursday after the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation began releasing water from the Subansiri Lower Hydro Electric Plant at Gerukamukh. The sudden surge triggered a rise in river levels and intensified currents, catching local boat commuters off guard.

Three boats were affected by the discharge, leaving fifty passengers stranded on sandbars and river ghats. Most of those caught in the rising water were teachers heading home from schools in Pub Telahi, Balijan, Bandarkata, and Esarkata. The Lakhimpur district administration launched a rescue operation after receiving distress calls, eventually sending the State Disaster Response Force to assist.

According to NHPC, officials released water from the 2000 MW project in phases throughout the afternoon. By 7 pm, rescue teams successfully brought all passengers to safety. The event has reignited local fears regarding dam management, as the district has faced similar issues before in the Ranganadi river basin. Reflecting on the impact of the discharge, a local observer noted that the sudden shift in the river's flow "led to a rise in water levels and stronger currents in the Subansiri river in downstream areas of Assam’s Lakhimpur district."