Flood Risks in Upper Assam: A Call for Urgent Action

Dispur, India Jul 26, 2026 ALN: Even as the overall flood scenario in the upper Assam districts of Charaideo, Sivasagar, Jorhat, and Golaghat has improved slightly in the last couple of days, one cannot rule out the possibility of recurrence of the floods in the weeks to come. The monsoon, already extremely erratic and unpredictable due to climate change, is not yet over. Based on the past decade's experience, it is clear that the rains can last until early October. And more rain in Nagaland means more trouble in store for the upper Assam districts whose rivers originate in the hills of the neighbouring state. This means there are still a little over two months for the flood risk to be over.

Flooding in Assam is not a new phenomenon; it has been a recurring challenge for the state, particularly during the monsoon season. The Brahmaputra River, one of the major rivers in the region, and its tributaries are prone to overflowing due to heavy rainfall. The situation has been exacerbated by climate change, which has led to unpredictable weather patterns and increased rainfall intensity. The last few years have seen a significant increase in the frequency and severity of floods, raising concerns among residents and authorities alike. The impacts of these floods are felt not only in terms of immediate damage to property but also in the long-term socio-economic challenges they pose to the communities affected.

Looking at the various news reports, one can say that the authorities—both in Assam and Nagaland—have yet to ascertain the actual reason(s) behind this unprecedented flood situation. While initial reports attributed the unprecedented floods to a series of cloudbursts in Nagaland, the Met department has dismissed those claims, indicating that the issue is likely more complex. In the meantime, while some reports have blamed the under-construction 186 MW hydroelectric project on the Dikhu River in Nagaland (Dikhow in Assam), there have also been reports of massive deforestation in the hill state recently, which has caused the massive flash floods in the rivers flowing down from the neighbouring states. Deforestation, particularly in hilly areas, has serious implications for water retention and soil erosion, both of which can lead to increased flooding downstream.

Assam being a lower riparian state as far as most of its rivers are concerned, the Himanta Biswa Sarma government has every right to check with the neighbouring states—Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Mizoram—as well as with Bhutan about the status of their rivers. Any project or disturbance to the rivers in the neighbouring states will definitely have an adverse impact on the lower riparian states. It is well-known that floods in the western Assam districts are primarily caused by dam construction and subsequent water releases from Bhutan. These dams, while serving purposes such as hydroelectric power generation and irrigation, can significantly alter the natural flow of rivers, leading to unexpected flooding in downstream areas. This raises questions about the balance between development needs and environmental sustainability.

In the north bank districts bordering Arunachal Pradesh, the reason for floods is the disturbance of the rivers originating or coming down from that state. The same is the case with the rivers of Kamrup (Metro), South Kamrup, and Goalpara districts, which come down from Meghalaya. As far as the Barak Valley is concerned, rivers flowing down from Mizoram play havoc. This interconnectedness of river systems across state boundaries highlights the need for cooperative water management strategies among the northeastern states of India. Collaboration among these states is essential not only for flood management but also for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

The implications of these flooding events extend beyond immediate damage to infrastructure and homes. Agriculture, which is a primary source of livelihood for many in Assam, is severely affected by floods. Crop damage can lead to food shortages and increased prices, impacting the economic stability of the region. Furthermore, the health risks associated with flooding, such as waterborne diseases, can strain public health resources and create long-term challenges for affected communities. The disruption of education and loss of livestock can further exacerbate the crisis, making recovery a lengthy and arduous process for families and communities.

In such a situation, the government of Assam should consider the upper Assam floods as an early warning of a worse situation in the near future and take up the issue urgently with the other states. This could involve advocating for better environmental practices in upstream states, such as responsible deforestation management, improved land use planning, and the establishment of early warning systems for floods. Additionally, there could be a push for regional agreements on water sharing and management to ensure that the needs of lower riparian states are considered in the planning of upstream projects. Such agreements could facilitate coordinated responses to flooding and promote shared responsibility among the states.

Moreover, the Assam government could also explore investment in flood mitigation infrastructure, such as levees, flood barriers, and improved drainage systems. These measures, while requiring substantial investment, could significantly reduce the impact of future flooding events. Community awareness and preparedness programs are also essential, as they can empower residents with knowledge and resources to respond effectively during flood emergencies. Engaging local communities in flood management strategies can enhance resilience and foster a sense of ownership over disaster preparedness efforts.

In conclusion, the recent floods in upper Assam serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of the region to climate change and the interconnected nature of river systems across state boundaries. As the monsoon season continues, it is imperative for the government to take proactive measures to address the underlying causes of flooding and to engage in cooperative efforts with neighboring states. The long-term sustainability of the region's environment and the safety of its residents depend on such actions. Policymakers must prioritize not only immediate disaster response but also long-term strategies that address the root causes of flooding and promote resilience against future climate-related challenges.