The Greater Jorabat Hills, situated just 6-7 kilometers from Guwahati, have been experiencing severe deforestation, leading to an exacerbation of flooding issues in the region. Recent images shared by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on X highlight the impact of this environmental degradation on flooding patterns, particularly after heavy rainfalls and cloud bursts.
Assam, already grappling with intense rainfall and river swelling, has seen its flood situation worsen due to the loss of forest cover. The state’s extensive network of over 120 river streams, many originating from the rain-heavy regions of Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya, frequently floods homes and fields. The deforestation in the Greater Jorabat Hills has significantly contributed to this problem. Trees and their root systems, which are crucial for stabilizing soil and absorbing rainwater, have been lost, leaving the soil vulnerable to erosion and increasing surface runoff. This unchecked rainwater flow exacerbates flooding, particularly in urban areas like Guwahati.
The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has reported that the removal of trees in the foothills has led to substantial soil erosion. This erosion clogs drainage channels with silt, reducing the city’s drainage capacity and making it more susceptible to flash floods and waterlogging. The situation is further aggravated by unplanned construction and encroachment on natural wetlands and reservoirs. These areas, which previously absorbed excess rainwater, have been disrupted, diminishing their flood-mitigation capabilities.
The consequences of this environmental degradation are profound, affecting public health and safety. With the city’s drainage infrastructure overwhelmed, Guwahati faces increased vulnerability to flooding, impacting daily life and infrastructure.
Environmental experts have pointed out that deforestation is a significant factor in worsening the flood situation in Assam. The loss of forest cover, combined with haphazard hill-cutting, has reduced the land's ability to absorb rainwater, leading to increased runoff and more severe flooding.
To address these issues, several measures need to be taken. Chief Minister Sarma has highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Meghalaya government to protect shared habitats and address cross-border environmental concerns. Efforts should focus on afforestation, better land-use planning, and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to restore and preserve the region’s ecological balance.
Additionally, implementing advanced flood warning systems, such as the one being piloted in Guwahati, could enhance preparedness and response to flood events. However, tackling the root causes of deforestation and environmental degradation remains crucial for long-term flood mitigation and overall environmental sustainability in the region.
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