The Gauhati High Court has directed government authorities to take a series of measures to tackle the recurring problem of artificial flooding in Guwahati and submit a progress report before the Court on the next date of hearing. The Court issued the directions after taking suo motu cognizance of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to the persistent artificial flood problem in the city. The PIL was filed by advocate Sandeep Chamaria.
The Court observed that open manholes and exposed drains across various parts of Guwahati pose a serious threat to public safety and daily life. It directed the State government, the Guwahati Municipal Corporation, and the concerned departments to immediately take protective measures by covering all open manholes, drains, and dangerous sewer channels.
The Court also expressed serious concern over the risks faced by citizens during heavy rainfall, when open drains become submerged under water and remain invisible, putting human lives in danger.
The PIL highlighted recurring artificial floods, severe waterlogging, poor drainage systems, encroachment on water bodies, and unscientific urban planning as the major reasons behind the worsening flood situation in Guwahati.
According to the petition, the April 19 incident in which a woman reportedly died after falling into an uncovered drain in the Maligaon area following heavy rainfall further exposed the seriousness of the issue. The Court further stressed the need for a scientific and time-bound action plan to ensure a permanent solution to Guwahati’s artificial flood problem. The next hearing of the case has been scheduled for May 12.
