Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said the state government will take up with the Centre concerns over mining activities in neighbouring Nagaland amid allegations that they have contributed to flooding in parts of Assam, while stressing that only a scientific study can establish the actual cause.
Speaking during his visit to flood hit Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, Sarma said the Assam government has no legal authority to stop mining operations in Nagaland as they fall outside its jurisdiction.
“I am the Chief Minister of Assam. I cannot stop mining in Nagaland. I will raise the issue with the Centre. There is no illegal mining in Assam. We need a scientific study to determine the actual cause of the problem,” he said, adding that Nagaland itself has witnessed flooding, which indicates the issue requires a comprehensive technical assessment rather than conclusions based on speculation.
Sarma said the government would rely on expert findings before deciding on any long term intervention to address recurring floods in the affected areas.
The Chief Minister also reviewed the flood situation in Sivasagar and Charaideo, where he interacted with affected residents and assured them of continued government support during the rehabilitation phase.
He announced that from August 9, officials will begin a detailed assessment of flood damaged houses to facilitate early distribution of financial assistance. According to him, nearly one lakh flood affected beneficiaries have already been identified by district administrations and the list has been verified by the state government.
Referring to persistent waterlogging in several localities, Sarma said the unusually high water level of the Brahmaputra has slowed the drainage of floodwater.
He added that the state government would ask the National Highways Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to construct additional cross drainage structures at locations where highways have obstructed the natural flow of water.
The Chief Minister also said embankments would be constructed in vulnerable areas wherever land is made available by residents, adding that community participation would be essential for strengthening Assam’s flood mitigation measures.
(IANS)
