Assam and Meghalaya Join Forces for Satellite Mapping to Resolve Guwahati's Waterlogging Issues

The governments of Assam and Meghalaya have decided to collaborate on satellite mapping of Guwahati and nearby areas. This initiative aims to address the city's persistent waterlogging issues. Assam has attributed these problems to illegal hill cutting in neighbouring Meghalaya. The solution will also ensure that economic activities in Meghalaya remain unaffected, according to the chief ministers of both states.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his Meghalaya counterpart Conrad Sangma announced this decision at a press conference. They plan to involve the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) for the mapping process. The data collected will be shared with IIT-Roorkee for further analysis, aiming to find a mutually beneficial solution.

Joint Efforts for Waterlogging Solution

Sarma explained that Assam presented detailed information to Meghalaya about the significant water inflow from Khanapara, located along the inter-state border near Guwahati. Sangma acknowledged the severity of the flooding issue, stating, "In the last few days and months, we have seen how rain is playing a role in view of climate change. Challenges are more than before, and both states have to work together."

The two states aim to develop a strategy that reduces waterlogging in Guwahati while safeguarding Meghalaya's interests. They intend to request NESAC to conduct satellite mapping of Guwahati and its surrounding regions, including forest cover and water flow patterns. The data will be submitted within three months for analysis by IIT-Roorkee.

Addressing Hill Cutting Concerns

Sarma has previously blamed hill cutting in Meghalaya for exacerbating Guwahati's waterlogging issues. He specifically pointed out that water flowing from the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM), located on a hill near Guwahati, contributes significantly to flooding in the city.

To address these concerns, Sarma mentioned that his government has approached a Supreme Court committee regarding the hill-cutting issue. The apex court has already issued notices to both states on this matter.

The collaboration between Assam and Meghalaya reflects their commitment to finding a sustainable solution that benefits both regions without disrupting economic activities. By leveraging satellite technology and expert analysis, they hope to mitigate the impact of waterlogging in Guwahati effectively.

With inputs from PTI