Sarbananda Sonowal seeks Centre’s help for repair of embankment in Assam

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that the 5000 Km embankments in Assam serve as a safeguard to rural economy and the recurring breaches on the embankments pose danger to rural economy.

In a crucial meeting with the Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Balyan in New Delhi, Chief Minister Sonowal apprised Dr. Balyan the extent of devastation caused by the recent waves of floods in Assam.

Sonowal drew the attention of the Union Water Resources Minister and emphasized the need for immediate intervention in terms of their repair and facelift of embankment.

Chief Minister Sonowal also requested the Centre's assistance to strengthen the embankments and said that a strong network of embankments holds the key to the growth of GDP in the State.

Drawing Dr. Balyan's attention, Sonowal also demanded a special grant from Centre for flood and erosion management in the State. The Chief Minister also exhorted on the need of dredging the Brahmaputra for making the river fit for navigation throughout the year.

Chief Minister Sonowal opined that the Ministry for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation must organise a national seminar involving all stake holders for discussing the flood and erosion problem.

Dr. Balyan assured all help and agreed to organise a seminar in Guwahati. He will also visit Assam this month to assess the situation .