Assam’s Wetland Initiative to Combat Floods
In a major step toward flood control and management, Assam has identified nine wetlands across several districts to act as water storage reservoirs. These natural reservoirs are intended to store excess floodwaters from the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries, reducing the adverse impacts of floods and fostering long-term ecological benefits.
The concept of using wetlands as water storage reservoirs aligns with Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s earlier suggestion to construct large ponds in the Northeast to store floodwaters. During a discussion on flood management, Shah emphasized that non-perennial rivers in the region are highly susceptible to soil erosion and siltation, which exacerbates flooding. He proposed that constructing at least 50 large ponds would not only help manage floodwater but also support agriculture, irrigation, and tourism development in the region, contributing to the local economy.
Identified Wetlands for Flood Water Storage
The Assam Water Resources Department has identified nine wetlands for this flood management initiative, with locations spread across Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Lakhimpur, Morigaon, Tezpur, and Majuli divisions. These wetlands will serve as natural storage spaces for floodwaters, helping to divert and store excess water during the rainy season.
Jorhat district has become a focal point in this initiative, with four wetlands being selected for water storage. These wetlands include Borsorola Beel with a storage capacity of 30 lakh cubic meters (cum), Sorola Beel (7.5 lakh cum), Potia Sorola Beel (3 lakh cum), and a wetland near Gelabeel with a capacity of 15 lakh cum. The excess floodwaters from the Brahmaputra River will be directed into these wetlands, easing the pressure on the riverbanks and reducing the risk of floods.
In Dibrugarh district, the Kawaimari Gaon wetland, connected to the Sessa River, has been identified as a key reservoir with a capacity of 30 lakh cum. This wetland will play a crucial role in floodwater management, ensuring that excess water is stored during peak flood season.
The Lakhimpur district’s Mudoibil area, with a planned capacity of 30 lakh cum, will divert floodwaters from the Subansiri River. Similarly, the Moroisuti Tup area in Morigaon district, with a capacity of 28 lakh cum, will serve as a reservoir for the floodwaters of the Pokoria River. These wetlands are expected to act as natural flood buffers, protecting the surrounding communities and agricultural lands from excessive water damage.
In Tezpur, the Mora Bharalu wetland has been earmarked for floodwater storage, with an impressive capacity of 62.5 lakh cum. Meanwhile, Majuli, a river island constantly plagued by floods, will have the Tuni area designated as a wetland to store floodwaters. The Tuni wetland will span 1 sq km with a capacity of 17 lakh cum. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of floods in the flood-prone river island.
Addressing Concerns Over Wetland Efficiency
While identifying these wetlands is seen as a positive step toward mitigating Assam’s chronic flood problems, there are concerns about the efficacy of such reservoirs in tackling the massive volume of floodwaters experienced annually. Critics argue that these reservoirs may not be sufficient to manage the extensive flooding caused by the Brahmaputra and its tributaries. However, state officials maintain that this initiative is a vital component of Assam’s broader flood management strategy and is expected to yield tangible results over time.
The Assam government’s wetland strategy is a part of its long-term efforts to address flood-related challenges. These wetlands will not only help in storing floodwaters but also improve groundwater recharge, enhance biodiversity, and create opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture in the region.
The potential benefits of this initiative extend beyond flood mitigation. The reservoirs could also help reduce soil erosion and siltation, which have long plagued Assam’s agricultural sector. By capturing excess floodwaters, these wetlands could make more water available for irrigation during dry seasons, thereby increasing agricultural productivity and contributing to food security in the state.
The Future of Flood Management in Assam
The identification and development of these nine wetlands are just the beginning of a more comprehensive flood management plan. The state government, in collaboration with national authorities, will continue to explore additional strategies to address flood risks in Assam. This may include further wetland development, improved riverbank protection measures, and the construction of more large water storage ponds as suggested by the Union Home Minister.
As Assam braces for future flood seasons, the success of this initiative will be closely monitored. If proven effective, it could serve as a model for flood-prone regions across India, offering a sustainable solution to one of the country’s most persistent environmental challenges.
