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Fresh erosion threatens villages and heritage sites, while flash floods expose civic challenges

Sivasagar, June 16: Recent severe erosion from the Brahmaputra and Desang rivers is threatening to wash away significant portions of Ligiribari Mising Gaon in Desangmukh as the water levels rise during the rainy season. The erosion has already commenced, leaving villagers worried about the possibility of permanent displacement.

Last year, Pijush Hazarika, the former Water Resources Minister, oversaw repair efforts in the area, where geo-bags were installed over a half-kilometer stretch. However, it seems that new erosion is set to occur beyond the repaired section.

Local poet Ganga Mohan Mili from Aphala Gaon and cultural activist Manoj Mili from Ligiribari emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive erosion control strategy from Desangmukh to Dikhowmukh to safeguard riverine communities such as Ligiribari, Aphala, Majorbari, Saraipora, Mamol Garbhaga, Garbhaga, and Alichiga.

Additionally, the historic Ramkha Peeth Dewalay in Deogharia and the Ajan Peer Dargah in Saraguri Chapori are also at risk from the Brahmaputra's erosion.

Bipin Panging, president of the Mising Mimak Kebang (MMK), noted that the erosion has drastically altered the landscape. He recalled that as a child, it took his relatives nearly two hours to reach the riverbank, but now the river is dangerously close to their homes in Ligiribari and Aphala.

Rajani Panging, a social worker, criticized the government for spending over Rs 1 crore annually on temporary protective measures, stating that effective long-term solutions for Desangmukh are still lacking.

One anonymous source revealed that some individuals are sabotaging the expensive porcupine bunds and geo-bags, stealing materials meant for protection. There is a pressing need for the water resources department to monitor the area closely.

Flash Flooding Issues: In a related issue, Sivasagar town is grappling with flash floods exacerbated by an inadequate drainage system, neglect of the natural drainage gradient established during British rule, ongoing encroachment on floodwater reservoirs, and a lack of civic responsibility among some residents who improperly dispose of sewage in drains.

After a brief downpour on Saturday morning, many roads in the town, including BG Road, Hospital Road, Boarding Road, and the ONGC Colony area, were submerged, forcing students and pedestrians to navigate through contaminated water.

Local residents are now appealing to Akhil Gogoi, their MLA, for prompt action to address this persistent civic issue.