Guwahati: Minister Kaushik Rai on Tuesday inspected flood-prone areas of Guwahati after Monday’s rain caused waterlogging.The housing and urban affairs minister, accompanied by New Guwahati MLA Diplu Ranjan Sarma and officials, visited Last Gate, Wireless-Beltola Road, Panjabari-Juripar, Barbari, Silsako pump house and Basistha to review drainage and flood mitigation works.At Basistha, Rai said encroachment narrowed the river. “We saw that the river has become even narrower due to encroachment. Therefore, we have instructed the circle officer to submit a detailed report within the coming week on the extent of the encroachment, including how much it existed previously and how much it has increased,” Rai added.“Drainage work will continue in the area, and while it may cause some inconvenience to residents, they have welcomed the initiative. We aim to channel the water from here to the Silsako Wetland. In addition, regular desilting of the drainage system and the river will be essential to ensure smooth water flow,” he said.Rai said he would meet GMDA, GMC, PWD and Town and Country Planning officials to identify low-lying stretches, correct road gradient issues and improve drainage.
