Assam chief secretary holds review after Guwahati cloudburst-like rainfall

Guwahati: A comprehensive review was conducted by Dr Ravi Kota, Chief Secretary following the intense cloudburst-like rainfall over Guwahati, where several locations recorded approximately 120 mm of rainfall within a few hours.

The heavy downpour led to widespread waterlogging, disruption of normal life, and considerable inconvenience to the public. Notably, this rainfall intensity exceeded the 120 mm recorded over 24 hours on 31 May 2025.

The India Meteorological Department, Assam State Disaster Management Authority, and District Disaster Management Authority have been directed to issue timely and advance weather forecasts and advisories. These measures aim to enable residents to take necessary precautions and plan their movement, supported by advance traffic advisories from the city police.


The National Highways Authority of India has been instructed to ensure that concessionaires remain available round-the-clock for clearing cross-drainage culverts, operating pumps, and removing silt deposits following waterlogging. Key stretches identified include Tetelia–Jalukbari, Excel Care–Gorchuk, Koinadhara–Tripura Road, and Jorabat–Khanapara.

The Guwahati Municipal Corporation, Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority, and the Water Resources Department have been directed to maintain 24×7 operational readiness to address waterlogging in Anil Nagar, Navin Nagar, Lachit Nagar, Rukmini Nagar and other vulnerable areas.

The Public Works Department (Roads) has been tasked with ensuring thorough desiltation of drains and preventing recurrence of waterlogging, particularly in areas such as GS Road near Bhangagarh. Strict directions have been issued for immediate, time-bound dredging, desiltation, and cleaning of all drainage channels. Any lapses in preparedness, maintenance, or response will invite accountability.

In connection with the Maligaon incident involving the loss of a life, the District Commissioner has been directed to institute a magisterial enquiry to determine responsibility. Incidents resulting in loss of life due to preventable causes are unacceptable and will be dealt with firmly.

Given the likelihood of continued heavy rainfall this season, residents in landslide-prone hilly areas are being alerted to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid loss of life and property.

All departments and agencies are operating round-the-clock in close coordination to address waterlogging, expedite drainage, and restore normalcy. The situation has improved in several areas, while targeted interventions are ongoing in the remaining affected locations.

Notably, waterlogging near Jorabat was cleared expeditiously due to prior dredging and drainage improvements towards Byrnihat, underscoring the importance of sustained desiltation efforts.

In view of past incidents, including landslides last year, the District Administration has been directed to maintain heightened vigilance in vulnerable areas and ensure coordinated response, mitigation, and relief measures.

As per the forecast by the India Meteorological Department, occasional rain and thunderstorms are likely over the coming days. All agencies have been directed to remain on high alert.