August 28, 2025-
Guwahati Waterlogging and Flood Situation: A Deep Look at the Crisis
Every year, Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India, finds itself submerged under the weight of torrential monsoon rains. In 2025, the story has been no different. The recent spell of heavy rainfall has once again crippled the city, leaving residents stranded and civic authorities struggling to cope. The city’s promise of development collides each year with the stark reality of its fragile urban infrastructure. Despite being one of the fastest-growing cities in the region, Guwahati’s rapid urban expansion and poor drainage infrastructure have made it extremely vulnerable to rain-induced flooding. This year has been no exception, as heavy rainfall coupled with runoff from the Meghalaya hills has once again left the city paralysed.
Causes of the Flood
- Heavy Rainfall: Monsoon showers were much higher than average.
- Hill Runoff: Water from Meghalaya’s hills added pressure on Guwahati’s drains.
- Poor Drainage: Encroachment on wetlands like Silsako Beel and clogged drains worsened flooding.
- Rapid Urbanization: Construction without proper planning has reduced natural water outlets.
Areas Most Severely Affected
Rukminigaon, Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, Beltola, Hatigaon, Wireless
- Floodwaters rose quickly, submerging roads and houses.
- SDPF rescue boats were deployed in Rukminigaon as water reached waist-level.
- Residents staged protests demanding permanent solutions.
Chandmari, Zoo Road, GS Road, Jorabat, Tarun Nagar, Panjabari, Jatia, Ganeshguri, Maligaon, Gita Nagar, Rajgarh, Ulubari, Lachit Nagar
- These locations experienced knee- to chest-deep water.
- Roads like Maniram Dewan (Chandmari) and NH-27 (Boragaon flyover) turned into dangerous waterways.
- Traffic gridlocks and stranded commuters became a daily scene.
Impact on Daily Life
- Transport: Ferry services between Guwahati and North Guwahati were suspended.
- Work & Education: Offices and schools reported low attendance due to blocked roads.
- Health Risks: Stagnant water raised concerns about dengue and waterborne diseases.
Voices from the Ground
- A commuter from Hatigaon said: “Flooding has become a nightmare for our daily travel.”
- In Chandmari, residents expressed frustration: “Two hours of rain is enough to paralyze our lives.”
Government & Community Response
- Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC): Formed Nagar Sevak committees in each ward to report civic issues.
- Assam & Meghalaya Governments: Collaborating with NESAC satellite mapping and IIT Roorkee experts for long-term flood solutions.
- Rescue Operations: Boats deployed in the worst-hit areas, with emergency shelters set up for displaced families.
Conclusion
The Guwahati Flood 2025 is not just a natural disaster—it is also the result of years of poor planning and neglected infrastructure. While the government has promised new solutions, residents remain skeptical. Without urgent action, Guwahati will continue to face the same crisis year after year.
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